Parkinson’s Disease & Nutrition: The Ultimate Guide to Dietary Support (Free PD Talk)

Unlock the Power of Food: PD Talk on Nutritional Strategies for Parkinson's Disease
 
A diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) brings with it many questions, but one of the most proactive and empowering steps you can take is focusing on what’s on your plate. While medication is crucial, the daily choices you make about food and drink profoundly impact symptom management, energy levels, and overall quality of life when living with PD. Often, dietary changes can be a subtle yet powerful lever for better health, especially when navigating challenges like tremors, constipation, or medication timing.
 
Are you managing Parkinson's but feel like you're missing a key piece of the wellness puzzle? You might be overlooking the simplest, most accessible tool available every single day: your diet. Keep reading to discover how tailored nutritional strategies can fundamentally shift your PD journey and how you can join a free expert talk to learn exactly where to start.

A Nutritional Perspective on Parkinson’s Wellness
 
Understanding the link between nutrition and Parkinson’s Disease involves more than just eating "healthy." It requires a specialized approach that addresses the unique physiological and neurological demands of the condition. For instance, specific food groups can interfere with the absorption of common PD medications, like levodopa, making the timing of meals as important as the content. Furthermore, PD often leads to issues like unintentional weight loss, swallowing difficulties (dysphagia), and chronic constipation—all of which can be significantly mitigated through thoughtful dietary planning.
 
This is precisely why the upcoming PD Talk: Parkinson’s Disease – A Nutritional Perspective is a must-attend event for anyone in the PD community—individuals, family members, and care partners alike.

Meet the Expert: Barbara Maione, MS, RDN, LD/N

Join us on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at 3:00 PM (Via Zoom) for a free, informative discussion led by Barbara Maione, MS, RDN, LD/N, Clinical Nutrition Director for HCA West Florida Bay Market Region. As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Ms. Maione brings a wealth of clinical expertise to this critical topic.
 
During this session, Barbara will break down complex nutritional science into practical dietary strategies you can implement immediately. She will cover vital nutrient considerations, the role of fiber and hydration, and specific ways to tailor your food choices to optimize wellness while managing Parkinson’s-related challenges. Her presentation promises to be a valuable opportunity to gain evidence-based insights aimed at improving daily health and long-term quality of life.
 
Registration is essential for this free Zoom event. Click the link below to register: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/3xjyZVB7S4yWfhOsiDsi2A

Why Support Matters
A diagnosis of any form of Parkinson’s can feel overwhelming. But with the right support and resources, individuals can maintain independence, quality of life, and emotional well-being. The nutritional conversation is just one piece of a comprehensive support system.
 
For resources, referrals, and support in navigating Parkinson’s and related conditions, contact the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) at www.paswfl.org or call 239-417-3465.
 
For over 25 years, PASWFL has provided free, high-quality services and programs to individuals and families touched by Parkinson’s disease in Southwest Florida. Their goal is simple: help people live well with PD, regardless of where they are in their journey.

Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups, including:

• Wellness and fitness classes
• Speech Exercise classes
• Educational seminars
• Support for care partners
• Support groups

There are no fees to become a member, and PASWFL welcomes anyone touched by PD.

Take the First Step Toward Living Well
If you suspect early Parkinson’s or have been recently diagnosed, you don’t have to face it alone.
👉 Click here to sign up for the PASWFL newsletter: https://parkinsonassociationswfl.org/signup-enews.html
👉 Click here to become a member…it’s free and confidential: https://parkinsonassociationswfl.org/signup.html
To learn more, visit www.paswfl.org and discover the power of support, education, and community.