Dietitians are a critical component of the multidisciplinary team in PD management.
Non-motor symptoms (e.g. dysphagia, constipation, orthostatic hypotension) and PD complications, including weight loss and muscle loss (i.e. sarcopenia), can be improved through dietary interventions. (1)
What do dietitian do?
Dietitians have an accredited degree in dietetics, are recognised by Medicare, the DVA and many private health insurers and can provide medical nutrition therapy. There are common misconceptions that nutrition is only important in the mid to late stages of Parkinson’s disease and primarily for older individuals. However, nutrition is crucial from diagnosis through all stages of the disease (1). Dietitians provide personalised dietary guidance, including advice on diet, supplements, and food-drug interactions, tailored to the cultural context of the patient (1). Dietetic intervention can positively impact non-motor symptoms such as constipation, weight management, sarcopenia, dehydration, bone health, and dysphagia, all of which affect the quality of life and mortality (1).
Why should I have a dietitian on my care team?
Having a dietitian on your Parkinson’s care team is incredibly beneficial for several reasons:
- Personalised meal plans: A well-balanced diet is recommended for people with Parkinson’s to help meet their daily nutritional needs and energy requirements. A registered dietitian can help you create a meal plan that accounts for your individual needs and medication schedule.
- Medication management: They help you understand how to time your meals and medications effectively, especially important for medications like levodopa.
- Symptom management: Dietitians provide strategies to manage common issues like constipation, low blood pressure, and unintentional weight loss (1).
- Expert guidance: With their accredited training, dietitians offer evidence-based advice, debunking nutrition myths and ensuring you get accurate information.
- Support and education: They offer ongoing support, helping you navigate dietary challenges and stay informed about the latest research and best practices
To find a dietitian near you see Dietitians Australia.
n.b. Nutritionists provide general dietary advice and promote healthy eating habits but are not qualified to provide medical nutrition therapy like a dietitian.
How do I access a dietitian?
Accessing dietitian services can make a significant difference in managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s, improving quality of life and maintaining independence. Look to Dietitians Australia for one near you.
It’s advisable to explore all available pathways to find the support that best suits your individual needs. Look to:
- getting a GP referral to a dietitian with Parkinson‘s experience
- your state-based Parkinson’s organisation for advice on dietitians to access
- private health to see what is covered in relation to nutrition/diet consultations and expenses
- NDIS or My Aged Care plan supports.
Infosheet under review
References:
(1) Richelle Flanagan, Carley Rusch, Fiona E. Lithander, Indu Subramanian, The missing piece of the puzzle – The key role of the dietitian in the management of Parkinson’s disease, Parkinsonism & Related Disorders, Volume 121, 2024, 106021, ISSN 1353-8020, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.parkreldis.2024.106021.
(2) The Parkinson Diet.
