Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Nutrition plays an influential role in Parkinson's disease. This study aims to assess nutritional obstacles, foods that impact symptoms, dietary guidelines, and consumption of dairy and organic foods in those with Parkinson's disease. STUDY DESIGN: We performed a multi-site qualitative study evaluating people's nutritional habits with Parkinson's disease. METHODS: Five focus groups were conducted in the United States (n=66); 36 individuals with a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease in various stages participated, as well as 30 caregivers. Data were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed for common themes. RESULTS: Participants reported some foods that improve symptoms or make them worse. They discussed challenges to cooking and eating. They also reported that physicians provide them with limited information regarding nutrition and diet. There is a disparity between rural and urban people with Parkinson's concerning the consumption of organic food. CONCLUSIONS: People with Parkinson's desire more nutritional information. It empowers them to feel more in control of their disease. More research should be conducted on the effects of nutritional intake and behaviors on Parkinson's disease symptomatology.