Shopping, cooking and eating

People with Parkinson's may experience dietary problems. As Parkinson's progresses, you may also need to rethink how you buy, store, prepare and cook food.

An occupational therapist can advise you on all aspects of food shopping and preparation, including kitchen and shopping aids.

Plan meals in advance and make a shopping list of all the ingredients you need.

Think about preparation times and how long you can comfortably stand at a cooker.

Consider buying ready prepared foods, frozen vegetables (they are just as nutritious as fresh) and tinned fish, meat or beans. Ready meals can save you time, energy, gas, electricity and food wastage.

You may be entitled to meals on wheels or home delivery of frozen meals.

Your local Parkinson's UK information and support worker can help ensure you get the services you need.

The Gov.uk website contains information on getting meals delivered to your home, if you're eligible.

Your local Parkinson's UK branch or support group may be able to help you with information about shopping services and volunteers in your area.

Special utensils, dishes and cutlery

A variety of adapted utensils for eating and drinking are available and may be worth considering:

• Specialised cutlery is available in various shapes and sizes.
• 2-handled 'tumble not' mugs with wide, non-slip bases and tall necks can help improve grip.
• 'Stay-warm plates' prevent food going cold if it takes you a long time to eat.
• High-lipped plates or plate guards prevent spillage and make it easier to draw food onto the fork or spoon.

Seek the advice of an occupational therapist before going to the expense of buying specialised items to make sure you're buying the best equipment for you.

Referral to either an occupational therapist is via your GP, consultant or specialist Parkinson's nurse. Or you can self-refer through your local social services department.

Read more in our Equipment and disability aids information sheet.

Mixing different food groups

Planning your meals to enjoy a wide variety of foods each day is still the best way to ensure you get all the necessary vitamins and nutrients.

Choose foods from the different groups each day to make sure you are eating as healthily as possible.

Starchy food

Bread, potatoes, rice, chapatis, yams, pasta, noodles, oats, cornmeal, crackers, toast and breakfast cereals

Fruit and vegetables

Ideally 5 servings each day. Visit the NHS website www.5aday.nhs.uk for tips and advice.

Dairy products

3 to 5 servings of milk and dairy foods each day are recommended.

Meat, fish and alternatives

Aim for 2 to 3 servings each day of meat, white or oily fish, eggs, beans, pulses or nuts.

Fluids

Aim for 6 to 8 mugs/glasses each day of water, fruit juice, squash, tea, coffee, milk, etc - and eat fruits that are juicy.

Fatty and sugary foods

Can be eaten in moderation.

Our Diet and Parkinson's booklet offers more information on diet and nurition.

Alcohol and Parkinson's

Unless you have been told by your doctor not to drink alcohol, a small amount does no harm and may be beneficial if it encourages a normal social life.

Also in this section

• Diet and Parkinson's
• Parkinson's medication, diet and supplements
• Weight, dietary problems and Parkinson's
• Shopping, cooking and eating
• Useful contacts

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