Substantial Matters: Life & Science of Parkinson's

Nutrition plays an important role in supporting overall health, but despite the many diets and wellness trends out there, there is no Parkinson's disease-specific diet scientifically proven to slow Parkinson's progression. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Lisa Deuel from the University of Vermont Medical Center to dispel the nutrition myths. She shares why it's more helpful to think about balance and moderation rather than restricting and labeling food as "good" or "bad". She explores the evidence behind diets like the Mediterranean and MIND (known as Neurodegenerative Delay) and breaks down commonly used terms like "neuroprotective" and "anti-inflammatory" so you can make more confident food choices. Key Takeaways: 1. Reframe thinking of food as "good" or "bad" to seeing food as fuel for your body. 2. Research is still lacking on whether certain foods can slow the progression of Parkinson's. 3. Follow a sustainable approach that is individualized to your unique needs and preferences. Want to hear more from Dr. Deuel? Check out her episode, "What Your Gut Has to Do with Parkinson's", to learn about the relationship between the gut microbiome and Parkinson's. Follow and rate us on your favorite podcast platform to be notified when there's a new episode! Let us know what other topics you would like us to cover by visiting parkinson.org/feedback.

Want more? Listen to the full episode on Tuesday, October 13, 2026 at parkinson.org/Podcasts. Nutrition plays an important role in supporting overall health, but despite the many diets and wellness trends out there, there is no Parkinson's disease-specific diet scientifically proven to slow Parkinson's progression. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Lisa Deuel from the University of Vermont Medical Center to dispel the nutrition myths. She shares why it's more helpful to think about balance and moderation rather than restricting and labeling food as "good" or "bad". She explores the evidence behind diets like the Mediterranean and MIND (known as Neurodegenerative Delay) and breaks down commonly used terms like "neuroprotective" and "anti-inflammatory" so you can make more confident food choices. More resources on Nutrition and Parkinson's: "Nutrition and PD" fact sheet "What to Know Before Taking Nutritional Supplements for Parkinson's" podcast episode "Simple Resolutions for Better Health" blog post Listen to our other podcast episodes at parkinson.org/Podcasts.

You don't have to have Parkinson's disease (PD), or even know someone who does, to help make a difference. Although you may not personally know someone living with Parkinson's, nearly 90,000 people are diagnosed each year. Having a basic understanding of the disease and how it can present is critical to raising awareness and helping people recognize the signs of PD in themselves or someone they know. Earlier diagnosis can lead to timely treatment, better health outcomes, and an improved quality of life.   Parkinson's has long been viewed as an "old man's disease," creating the misconception that it only affects older adults. In this episode, Bryan Geenen and Prajakti Barot, Parkinson's Foundation Ambassadors in Colorado, share why they chose to become volunteers and how they're helping challenge that stereotype. They discuss why younger generations play a vital role in raising awareness, bringing fresh perspectives, and inspiring others to take action.  Key Takeaways:  As more people are diagnosed with Parkinson's each year, younger generations have an opportunity to bring fresh ideas and technology to build on past work.  Knowing the common signs of PD helps educate others about the disease.   You don't have to know someone with PD to make a positive impact on the Parkinson's community.  Follow and rate us on your favorite podcast platform to be notified when there's a new episode! Let us know what other topics you would like us to cover by visiting parkinson.org/feedback. 

Want more? Listen to the full episode at parkinson.org/Podcasts. Sleep problems affect more than 75% people with Parkinson's disease (PD) and can have a significant impact on day to day life. Common challenges include difficulty falling or staying asleep, excessive sleepiness during the day, and acting out dreams while asleep.  This episode focuses on REM (Rapid Eye Movement) Sleep Behavior Disorder, or RBD, a condition in which people may verbally and/or physically act out their dreams. These instances can increase the risk of injury for both the person with Parkinson's and their bed partner, making awareness and symptom management especially important. We invited Dr. Aleksandar Videnovic, Chief of the Division of Sleep Neurology at Massachusetts General Brigham, along with Caron Gan and John Poma, members of the NAPS Consortium on REM Sleep Behavior Disorders, to share insights on what RBD is, why it happens, and strategies for managing symptoms.

Sleep problems affect more than 75% people with Parkinson's disease (PD) and can have a significant impact on day to day life. Common challenges include difficulty falling or staying asleep, excessive sleepiness during the day, and acting out dreams while asleep. This episode focuses on REM (Rapid Eye Movement) Sleep Behavior Disorder, or RBD, a condition in which people may verbally and/or physically act out their dreams. These instances can increase the risk of injury for both the person with Parkinson's and their bed partner, making awareness and symptom management especially important. We invited Dr. Aleksandar Videnovic, Chief of the Division of Sleep Neurology at Massachusetts General Brigham, along with Caron Gan and John Poma, members of the NAPS Consortium on REM Sleep Behavior Disorders, to share insights on what RBD is, why it happens, and strategies for managing symptoms. Key Takeaways:  Growing research shows that RBD can precede a Parkinson's diagnosis by several years.   RBD symptoms can change over time and may include physically and/or verbally acting out dreams.   Sleep disturbances and fragmented sleep can contribute to fatigue and may worsen other PD symptoms.   Practical Strategies:  Remove objects near the bed that may cause injury.  Lower the bed or mattress to reduce the risk of falls.  Create a consistent sleep schedule.  Keep a sleep diary to track symptoms and patterns.  Find an "RBD buddy" to share stories and tips.  Follow and rate us on your favorite podcast platform to be notified when there's a new episode! Let us know what other topics you would like us to cover by visiting parkinson.org/feedback.