Top 5 Nutritional Strategies to Lower Parkinson’s Disease Risk
Discover five key dietary strategies to help prevent Parkinson’s disease, including foods rich in antioxidants and nutrients that support brain health. Learn about effective medications like Rytary and lifestyle tips for managing symptoms. This guide offers valuable insights into dietary choices and medical options for Parkinson’s sufferers, emphasizing prevention and treatment to improve quality of life.

Top 5 Nutritional Strategies to Lower Parkinson’s Disease Risk
Parkinson’s disease impacts the central nervous system, leading to decreased dopamine levels in the brain and symptoms like tremors and balance issues. While aging is a primary factor, research indicates that diet can influence risk reduction. Incorporating certain foods may support brain health and delay progression. Here, we highlight five effective foods along with medication options, including FDA-approved treatments like Rytary, to manage symptoms effectively.
Fava beans
Fava beans naturally contain levodopa, a compound used in Parkinson’s medication. Consuming them may help ease symptoms, although scientific evidence remains limited.

Fatty Fish
Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, renowned for their anti-inflammatory benefits. These healthy fats have been associated with protecting neurons from degeneration and maintaining dopamine balance in aging brains.
Green Tea
Loaded with antioxidants, green tea can help prevent and combat Parkinson’s symptoms. It promotes neural health by preserving dopamine levels and reducing neural inflammation.
Vegetables
High in folic acid, many fresh vegetables can lower Parkinson’s risk. Key sources include broccoli, spinach, okra, asparagus, collard greens, and Brussels sprouts. Legumes, lentils, and avocados also provide B vitamins beneficial for brain health.
Berries
Popular berries such as blueberries, blackberries, goji berries, cranberries, and strawberries are rich in antioxidants. These compounds help neutralize free radicals, which are linked to neurodegenerative processes in Parkinson’s disease.
For managing the disease, several medications are available:
Rytary
An FDA-approved drug combining carbidopa and levodopa, widely used to treat Parkinson’s symptoms.
Pramipexole
A dopamine agonist that imitates dopamine effects in the brain, compensating for its deficiency.
Selegiline
An MAO-B inhibitor that prevents dopamine breakdown by blocking the monoamine oxidase B enzyme.
Ongentys
Recently approved by the FDA, Ongentys enhances levodopa effectiveness by inhibiting catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), reducing off-episodes in Parkinson’s treatment.