Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a condition that affects the brain and causes problems with movement. It also affects other aspects of health.

Many people with Parkinson’s also experience weight loss, which may cause issues such as malnutrition.

Learn why it happens and what you can do about it.

The risk of weight loss with Parkinson’s is more than doubled that of the rest of the population. Weight loss can begin years before diagnosis and can have a major impact on quality of life.

Multiple factors are thought to be involved in Parkinson’s weight loss, including symptoms to do with the disease itself as well as medications used to treat it.

Factors involved in weight loss with Parkinson’s include:

  • Increased energy use: Tremors and other involuntary movements use up a lot of energy which means calories. Over time, this can lead to weight loss.
  • Eating difficulties:
    • Dysphagia (trouble swallowing) can make eating and drinking difficult. Discomfort, choking, and drooling can cause people to avoid eating, which could cause unintentional weight loss.
    • Some people with Parkinson’s disease lose their appetite and don’t feel like eating as much as they used to.
    • Changes in sense of taste and smell due to Parkinson’s can make food less appealing, causing you to eat less.
  • Digestive issues:
    • Parkinson’s disease can slow the digestive system. This can prevent nutrients from being properly absorbed (causes malnutrition), and causes constipation, a sense of fullness, and discomfort.
    • Gastroparesis is also common with Parkinson’s disease. It’s a specific condition where the stomach empties slowly. This can cause feelings of fullness, nausea, and sometimes vomiting.
    • The microbiome, which is the mix of bacteria in your digestive system, is thought to be different in Parkinson’s disease. These alterations interfere with the breakdown and absorption of nutrients, leading to weight loss and malnutrition.
  • Mental health: People with Parkinson’s disease may experience depression and anxiety, which can affect appetite and eating habits.
  • Medication side effects:

Several strategies can help you or your loved one avoid weight loss with Parkinson’s disease.

  • Eat a balanced diet: Focus on eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These foods provide essential vitamins and minerals to support your overall health.
  • Eat smaller but more frequent meals: Eating smaller meals more often can help if you have trouble eating large meals. This can make it easier to get enough calories throughout the day.
  • Use nutritional supplements: If you’re struggling to maintain your weight, consider adding high-calorie nutritional shakes or supplements to your diet. These can provide extra calories and nutrients.
  • Get help with swallowing: A speech therapist can help you with swallowing techniques to make eating and drinking easier and safer.
  • Manage medications: Talk to your doctor about any side effects from your medications. They might recommend timing meals and medication dosing for better ability to tolerate food and absorb nutrients.
  • Manage digestive problems: Drinking plenty of water and eating fiber-rich foods can help manage issues like constipation. If you experience gastroparesis, you can make dietary changes or try certain medications. Supporting your microbiome with probiotics (through food or supplements) could also help manage weight.

Always speak with a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding changing your diet or adding supplements. If you start to notice weight loss or a lack of appetite, speak with your doctor promptly to find the cause.

It’s also important to note that weight loss and malnutrition are distinct conditions, but can occur together.