World Parkinson's Day: Healthy eating, exercise can help manage Parkinson's

World Parkinson's Day is observed annually on 11 April and is supported by the European Parkinson's Disease Association. Parkinson's Awareness Day aims to raise awareness of Parkinson's disease, promoting a greater understanding of the condition and how it can affect a person. Parkinson's is a disease in which nerve cells that carry the neurotransmitter dopamine to other cells are reduced in number. As cell death spreads to larger parts of the brain, more centers are affected. This results in aggravation of motor and non-motor disorders.

As individuals age, the most important factor will be the quality of life they will live for many years. Parkinson's disease is a commonly seen disease that adversely affects the quality of human life as they get older. Since the exact cause of Parkinson's is unknown, even proven ways to prevent the disease remain a mystery. The onset of Parkinson's disease can be a worrying diagnosis as it can significantly affect the quality of life of the individual and their family. When Parkinson's is present at a young age, it is more likely to have a genetic link. It may progress differently in older people than it does with Parkinson's. Being aware of the symptoms can help a person get treatment and support at an early stage.
“Although there is no prescription for a Parkinson's disease-specific diet, to maintain overall good health most people with the disease should eat a variety of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, milk and dairy products, and protein-rich foods such as: Must eat meat. and beans. One should consider including nuts, olive oil, fish, and eggs in their diet their beneficial fats. Eating a variety of foods will help you get the energy, protein, vitamins, minerals and fiber you need for good health. In advanced stages of the disease, the timing of protein intake may need to be adjusted according to the timing of medication to improve the efficacy of the drugs,” said Suresh Reddy, Consultant Neuro physician, Aware Gleneagles Global Hospital.

“In addition to medications, there are many ways people with Parkinson's disease can improve their health and well-being, maintain physical function, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life. The most important of these are getting regular exercise, staying hydrated and getting enough. of sleep Developing quality habits like practicing yoga, tai-chi, going for a massage or movement therapy, acupuncture etc are also great means to avoid falling into the trap of Parkinson's disease,” says Abhinay M. Hutch, Consultant Neurologist, SLG Hospital. ,
A Pritham Reddy, Consultant Neurologist, Century Hospital, said: “By 2030, one in every six people in the world will be 60 years of age or older, and the share of the population aged 60 years and above will increase at that rate. One billion to 1.4 billion in 2020. With increased income, people indulge in habits like alcohol, which can result in diseases like Parkinson's disease over time. Therefore, there is an urgent need to spread awareness about the risks associated with the disease and how it will adversely affect the quality of life, and what preventive steps can help address the risks.”