Dyskinesia is an abnormal, involuntary, and uncontrolled movement. It can affect any part of the body like the arms, legs, or the head. Over time, the symptoms can worsen, and the person can experience wriggling, head bobbing or body swaying. Here is a diet plan that will help one deal better with their symptoms.

Food items to eat

Antioxidants
Stress can aggravate the condition of dyskinesia, but a diet with a high amount of antioxidants can help in reducing one’s stress levels. Several food items are rich sources of antioxidants.

  • Tree nuts like pecans, pistachios, and Brazil nuts
  • Spinach and kale
  • Tomatoes, cranberries, elderberries and much more
  • Eggplant and all the other nightshade vegetables

Omega-3
The secondary symptoms of dyskinesia can be reduced by consuming a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 is found in oysters, soybeans, salmon, halibut, kidney beans, and flax seeds.

Fava beans
Fava beans are rich in levodopa, which is an ingredient present in the medicines prescribed to treat Parkinson’s disease. They can be used along with the medicines, but cannot substitute them as it is hard to understand how much levodopa one is getting via the beans.

According to many research studies, proteins, gut bacteria, and flavonoids can also help in improving the symptoms of dyskinesia.

Foods to avoid

Dairy products
Dairy products have been linked to an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease. So, there are chances that it may worsen the symptoms of dyskinesia. Dairy products have a negative impact on the oxidation levels of the brain, and they may lead to persistent symptoms. But if one decides to stop dairy products like cheese, yogurt, and milk, they must take calcium supplements.

Highly saturated foods
Saturated foods are fried or heavily processed, and so, they have the ability to alter one’s metabolism. They can increase blood pressure and also have an impact on cholesterol levels. All of these changes are not favorable when one is undergoing treatment for dyskinesia.

Foods to manage the symptoms of dyskinesia

Constipation
One must have foods that are rich in fiber such as wholegrain bread or flour, fruits, and vegetables. One can even include legumes like lentils, peas, and beans. Also, it is advisable to have lots of fluids.

Heartburn, bloating, and reflux
For these symptoms, try and have small and frequent meals. Alcohol, carbonated drinks, and caffeine must be avoided. It is best to reduce the consumption of spices, chocolate, peppermint as they can trigger the symptoms of dyskinesia.

Problems related to moving lips, tongue, and jaw
Eat soft foods like cooked cereals, gravies, scrambled eggs, thick soups, ground meals, and much more. Also, try mincing the food.

Uncontrolled or slow movements
One must never skip their meals, and they must also make sure to chew their meals slowly. One can eat their food in a quiet setting and have small portions of fruits and finger foods.

This diet plan may not help prevent the symptoms or the disease, but will help with its management.