Nutrition

Many Parkinson's patients have difficulty digesting after meals, which can result in a poor attitude toward eating and drinking. Following are suggestions to make the entire process more pleasurable.

• Cut food into smaller portions and use blenders and food processors to make drinks more enjoyable
• When necessary, after checking first with your physician, use a mild laxative but do not overmedicate for constipation. (Be sure to see your doctor about constipation if it becomes serious)
• Try drinking a glass of juice one half hour after breakfast to avoid nausea
• To avoid or quiet an upset stomach, try eating an oatmeal cookie with your medication. Flat cola or ginger ale may also help

Exercise

• Always check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program
• Exercise your face, jaws, and voice whenever possible
• Begin and end exercise sessions with stretching, bending, and breathing exercises. Never overexert yourself, and rest if you become tired
• Exercising in bed might be easier than on the floor or on an exercise mat
• Build your walking skills, even if you need to hold onto someone or something
• Take part in sports and hobbies, with your doctor's approval
• Try water exercises because they are easier on the joints