Parkinson’s affects thousands of people in the UK and around the world. It happens when nerve cells that produce dopamine are damaged, which leads to symptoms such as tremor, slow movement and stiffness. Because Parkinson’s can involve more than 40 different symptoms, its effect on eating and drinking varies a lot from person to person.

Changes to appetite, chewing and swallowing are common. That can cause unwanted weight loss or weight gain, and either one can make symptoms harder to manage. Good nutrition is therefore an important part of living well with Parkinson’s. Below are clear, practical tips on what to eat, what to avoid, how to handle mealtime problems, and how carers can help.

Why diet matters

Nutrition supports strength, mood and brain health. Eating well helps maintain muscle mass, prevent malnutrition, and keep energy steady. For people taking levodopa and other Parkinson’s medicines, food can affect how drugs work. That is why you should discuss diet and medication timing with your specialist or pharmacist.

Simple eating rules to follow

You do not need an extreme or restrictive diet unless a clinician recommends one. Focus on variety, nutrient density and regular meals.

Try to:

• Eat plenty of vegetables and fruit every day.
• Choose whole grains like oats, brown rice and wholemeal bread.
• Include lean proteins: eggs, fish, chicken, beans, lentils, tofu, dairy and pulses.
• Prefer healthy fats such as oily fish, avocados, seeds and nuts.
• Limit processed foods, sugary drinks and excess salt.
• Drink regularly to avoid dehydration.

Foods to prioritise

Protein
Protein is vital for muscle strength and overall energy. Good sources include eggs, Greek yogurt, milk, beans, chicken, tofu, nuts and seeds. Note that protein can reduce levodopa absorption for some people. Speak with your neurologist or dietitian about the best timing of protein and medication for you.

Nutrient-dense choices
If appetite or chewing is a problem, pick foods that pack calories and nutrients into smaller portions. Examples are fortified smoothies, full-fat yogurt, nut butters, mashed avocado, soft fish and blended soups.

Antioxidant-rich foods
Foods high in antioxidants may help protect cells from oxidative stress. Try berries, leafy greens, tomatoes, peppers and nuts.

Omega-3 fats
Omega-3s support brain and heart health. Include oily fish such as salmon and mackerel, flaxseeds, soybeans and walnuts.

Foods and habits to limit

• Foods high in saturated fat, such as fatty red meat, butter and deep-fried meals.
• Highly processed foods and ready meals, which are low in nutrients.
• Excess sugar and sugary drinks.
• Too much alcohol or caffeine if these disrupt sleep, appetite or medication schedules.
• Very tough, chewy foods if swallowing is already difficult.

Common mealtime problems and practical solutions

Swallowing difficulties
Swallowing problems become more likely as Parkinson’s progresses. A speech and language therapist can assess swallowing and advise on safer food and drink consistencies, posture, pacing, and exercises. Practical adjustments may include smaller bites, thicker drinks, softer textures or pureed meals when recommended.

Tremor and poor dexterity
Hand tremors and reduced dexterity make holding cutlery or cups harder. Try adaptive equipment such as larger-handled or weighted cutlery, plate guards, cups with lids and non-slip placemats. Meal timing can help too: aim to eat when medication is at its most effective.

Loss of smell and taste
A reduced sense of smell or taste is common and can lower appetite. Boost flavour with herbs and spices like garlic, ginger, cinnamon, turmeric and citrus. Use contrasting textures and colourful plates to make food more appealing.

Unintentional weight loss or gain
If weight loss is a concern, add small, calorie-dense snacks between meals: nut butters, smoothies, full-fat yogurt, mashed avocado or fortified milks. If weight gain is an issue, focus on portion control and more vegetables, while keeping active where possible. Work with a dietitian for personalised advice.

Eating out with Parkinson’s

You can and should enjoy meals out when possible. To make it easier:

• Time the meal for when medication works best.
• Choose table service rather than buffet style.
• Check menus in advance and ask for softer options if needed.
• Request seating close to toilets if bladder control is a concern.
• Bring adaptive cutlery discreetly if that makes you more comfortable.
• Ask for a chair with armrests if that helps getting up and down.

How carers can help at mealtimes

A live in carer can make a big difference to nutrition and enjoyment of food. Useful support they can provide includes:

• Preparing balanced, easy-to-eat meals and nutrient-rich snacks.
• Helping to time food around medication.
• Using adaptive equipment and encouraging safe eating techniques.
• Monitoring weight and appetite, and reporting worrying changes to clinicians.
• Supporting appointments with dietitians, speech therapists and GPs.
• Making mealtimes pleasant and social, which can improve intake.

When to seek professional help

Contact your GP or Parkinson’s specialist if you see rapid weight change, repeated coughing or choking on food, frequent chest infections, or a marked loss of appetite. Referral to a speech and language therapist, dietitian or occupational therapist can provide practical, tailored solutions.

Final thoughts

Eating well with Parkinson’s is largely about small, sustainable changes and sensible planning. Work with your healthcare team, try adaptive tools to make meals easier, and keep social dining part of life. Good nutrition supports strength, quality of life and independence.

If you would like practical help at home, Live in Solutions can support mealtimes, medication routines and daily care. Speak to our team for a free, no-obligation enquiry and assessment on 01245 890 336. We can match a trained live-in carer who understands nutrition, mealtime safety and how to keep your loved one comfortable and nourished.