Understanding Parkinson's Weight Loss 5 Key Reasons скачать в хорошем качестве

Understanding Parkinson's Weight Loss 5 Key Reasons

Why Do Patients with Parkinson’s Disease Lose Weight? Weight loss is a common but often overlooked issue in Parkinson’s disease. Many patients and caregivers notice it, but why does it happen? Today, I’ll explain 5 reasons why people with Parkinson’s lose weight and what can be done about it. 1. Loss of Taste and Smell One of the earliest symptoms of Parkinson’s is a reduced sense of smell and taste. If food doesn’t taste as good, appetite naturally decreases, leading to lower calorie intake over time. 2. Depression and Loss of Appetite Depression is common in Parkinson’s, and it directly affects appetite. People may feel less motivated to eat, skip meals, or simply eat less than they need. 3. Excessive Movement = More Calories Burned Dyskinesia—those involuntary, excessive movements caused by long-term levodopa use—can cause a significant increase in calorie burning, leading to unintended weight loss. 4. Nausea and Medication Side Effects Many Parkinson’s medications, especially dopamine agonists and levodopa, can cause nausea. If eating makes you feel sick, you’re likely to eat less, leading to weight loss over time. 5. Gastroparesis and Nutrient Absorption Issues Parkinson’s affects the autonomic nervous system, slowing down digestion—also known as gastroparesis. This leads to bloating, early fullness, and poor nutrient absorption, further contributing to weight loss. ***Important Note: Rule Out Other Causes It’s important to rule out other serious causes of weight loss, like cancer or primary gastrointestinal disorders. If weight loss is rapid or excessive, further evaluation is needed by a gastroenterologist. ***How to Manage Weight Loss in Parkinson’s 1. Maximize flavor with stronger seasonings and varied textures. 2. Eat smaller, more frequent meals to overcome early satiety with healthy, high-calorie foods such as olive or avocado oil, salmon, sardines, mackerel, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, organic eggs, dark chocolate, dried fruits (figs, raisins), quinoa, brown rice, legumes (lentils, chickpeas, black beans), and smoothies with high-calorie additions blended with banana, peanut butter, and full-fat organic milk milk 3. Medication adjustments may help if nausea or dyskinesia is severe. 4. Speak with a dietitian for personalized strategies if the above does not work If you or a loved one with Parkinson’s is experiencing weight loss, speak with your doctor. There are effective ways to manage it! If you found this video helpful, please hit the like button and subscribe for more practical advice on Parkinson’s. See you in the next video! For more information, visit our website: https://www.gemneurology.com/ Dr. Z Luis E. Zayas, MD PT GEM Neurology PLLC, Clinton, TN Board-certified internist and neurologist by the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Fellowship trained in Movement Disorders and Neuro Critical Care. *Former New Jersey and Puerto Rico licensed physical therapist. Dr. Z