Discover five dietary strategies to potentially lower Parkinson’s disease risk, including foods rich in antioxidants and neuroprotective compounds. Coupled with FDA-approved medications like Rytary, these approaches can support symptom management and improve quality of life for those at risk.

Effective Dietary Approaches to Reduce Parkinson’s Disease Risk

Parkinson’s disease affects the central nervous system, resulting in lower dopamine levels and symptoms such as tremors and balance difficulties. Although aging is a significant factor, research suggests that diet can influence the likelihood of developing the condition. Including specific foods may enhance brain health and potentially slow disease progression. This article covers five key foods to consider, along with FDA-approved medications like Rytary to effectively manage symptoms.

Fava Beans
Fava beans naturally contain levodopa, a precursor used in Parkinson’s treatments. Eating them might help alleviate symptoms, though scientific evidence is still emerging.

Studies indicate fava beans could improve motor function in Parkinson’s patients.

Omega-3 Rich Fish
Foods such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids, known for their anti-inflammatory effects. These healthy fats may protect neurons from degeneration and help maintain dopamine levels in aging brains.

Green Tea
Packed with antioxidants, green tea supports neural health by protecting dopamine levels and reducing inflammation, potentially helping prevent or slow Parkinson’s symptoms.

Green tea also enhances cognitive performance and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties.

Vegetables
Consuming vegetables rich in folic acid, like broccoli, spinach, okra, asparagus, collard greens, and Brussels sprouts, may lower Parkinson’s risk. Legumes, lentils, and avocados are also excellent sources of B vitamins crucial for brain health.

Berries
Berries such as blueberries, blackberries, goji berries, cranberries, and strawberries contain antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals, which are linked to neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s disease.

For symptom management, several FDA-approved medications are available:

Rytary
An FDA-approved combination of carbidopa and levodopa used widely to treat Parkinson’s symptoms.

Pramipexole
A dopamine agonist that mimics dopamine in the brain, helping to replace its deficiency.

Selegiline
An MAO-B inhibitor that prevents dopamine breakdown by blocking monoamine oxidase B enzyme.

Ongentys
Recently approved by the FDA, Ongentys improves levodopa efficiency by inhibiting COMT, reducing off-episodes in Parkinson’s treatment.