Everyone Poops…Unless you have Parkinson’s!

People with Parkinson’s have a high risk of chronic constipation due to slow and rigid bowel muscles. Lack of dopamine in the brain impairs control of the movement of these muscles. Certain medications can also cause constipation. Symptoms of constipation include straining while on the toilet, inability to make a bowel movement, 3 or fewer bowel movements a week, irritation and fatigue. But fear not! There are things you can do to help http://www.buydiazepamtop.com manage constipation:

• Drink 48-72 ounces of water daily. Carry a water bottle and set daily reminders to drink throughout the day
• Increase fiber intake
• Eat slowly and chew thoroughly
• Fruits and vegetables are full of water AND easily digested, helping to ease constipation
• AVOID DAIRY!
• EXERCISE to keep things moving!

For more information on constipation and how to address it, see the Parkinson’s and Constipation handout and a helpful Chart.

Vanessa Leschak
Certified Nutrition Therapist