Kiama Takes Action for Parkinson's Disease Support
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The Kiama Support Group hosted its annual Step Up for Parkinson's fundraiser on June 4, 2023. The scenic event took place at Kiama Harbour, with the beach and walking path providing a picturesque backdrop. The well-attended event welcomed walkers of all abilities, friends, and family members, as well as supporters from the community.
Kiama Rotary was actively involved, offering their popular sausage sizzle, while two warm-up sessions – dance for Parkinson's and group exercises – opened the occasion. Prior to the walk, a Parkinson's Community Hero Award was presented to exercise physiologist Sarah Clemm for her dedication to the local group.
In addition to sponsorships for walkers, other fundraising initiatives included multiple raffle draws and sales of Parkinson's NSW branded merchandise.
Proper nutrition, constipation management, and timely medication intake can significantly impact the efficacy of Parkinson's treatment, particularly regarding levodopa, a common medication used in treatment regimens like Sinemet or Rytary.
High protein intake can inhibit the absorption of levodopa due to a phenomenon known as the "protein effect." A practical solution for managing this issue involves consuming protein evenly throughout the day or concentrating intake at the end of the day. It is also advised to avoid consuming iron-rich foods, such as red meat, around medication administration.
Adopting the Mediterranean diet, with its emphasis on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, olive oil, and whole grains, may aid in slowing the progression of Parkinson's symptoms.
Constipation and delayed gastric emptying can slow the absorption of Parkinson's medications, leading to reduced efficacy and increased motor symptoms. A diet rich in fiber can help manage constipation and improve medication absorption.
The use of carbidopa – combined with levodopa in medications like Sinemet or Rytary – can help minimize required levodopa dosage and improve absorption by preventing early conversion to dopamine outside the brain.
Medication should be taken about 30 minutes before meals to avoid protein interference and improve absorption. Mindful management of diet, constipation, and medication intake timings can maximize the effectiveness of Parkinson's treatments. Collaborating with healthcare professionals for personalized advice is essential.
- Science has shown that proper nutrition, including avoiding high protein intake around medication administration and adopting a Mediterranean diet, can significantly impact the effectiveness of therapies and treatments for neurological disorders like Parkinson's.
- Managing constipation and delayed gastric emptying, common conditions associated with Parkinson's, through a diet rich in fiber can improve medication absorption and, in turn, increase the efficacy of treatments such as levodopa.
- In addition to diet management, the use of specialized therapies and treatments like carbidopa – combined with levodopa in medications like Sinemet or Rytary – can help minimize required levodopa dosage, improve absorption, and reduce motor symptoms related to Parkinson's.
- For individuals dealing with medical conditions like Parkinson's, mental health, fitness, and exercise, and overall health and wellness should be considered concurrently, as they all play crucial roles in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
