Today is Friday August 7, 2020. Since starting this blog, I have been thinking a lot about my eating habits. I realize it is time to eat healthier and as they say "There is no time like the present". It's time to change it up. I know better, I just choose to eat foods that are not good for me, especially desserts. After much research, I have discovered that there actually isn't a precise diet for PD. But there certainly are foods that come highly recommended for staying healthy and strong.
Let's begin with my favorites.... Veggies and fruits. Both are packed with antioxidants. Antioxidants are structures that shield our healthy cells against free radicals (molecules). Free radicals can cause serious harm if their levels rise too high. They have been linked with heart disease and cancer. So.... the more fruits and veggies you can consume, the better! As far as veggies go, spinach and kale take the prize for high antioxidants! Some of my personal favs are carrots, potatoes, asparagus and avocados (the good fat). For fruits, my picks are blueberries (the blue rock star for high antioxidants), raspberries, apricots and pineapple. Tree nuts also top the list. Two of my favorites are pistachios and cashews. For fiber intake, whole grain breads and cereal come highly recommended. My fav cereal in this category is Kashi. But the number one cereal for high fiber and low sugar content is....... Cherrios (I'm definitely not a fan). Surprisingly, fruits with peels left on are also a great source of fiber. For dairy, you want to concentrate on items containing vitamin D and K. These vitamins help to increase bone density and strengthen muscle. By drinking a glass of milk each day, you will meet vitamin D and K requirements, in liquid form. Yogurt is another great option (a cup or two per day).
For more whole grain foods, brown rice and pasta top my list of yummies. Don't forget about protein rich foods such as lean chicken, lean beef and fish. FYI.... There are specific rules re taking Rytary and the timing of eating protein rich food. To ensure the maximum absorption of Rytary, foods containing protein should be eaten an hour before or an hour after taking Rytary. Similarly, multi-vitamins, iron tablets, calcium and vitamin C should follow the same protocol for maximum benefits.
Besides clean eating, the most important thing you can do for your body is to stay hydrated. At least six glasses of water should be consumed everyday. Staying hydrated has always been an issue for me. I know better than not to drink enough water in the heat. Every summer, at some point, I become dehydrated. Once I realize it, I drink Gatorade for electrolytes. It works like a charm every time! Six glasses sounds like a lot, but you can always spruce it up with lemon slices, orange slices or ?? Like anything else, good clean eats requires a new mindset. Stay strong and think about why you are changing things up! What are you waiting for?
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