Healthy Diet
and Lifestyle
Eating right is just one way you can take care of yourself while you and your doctor treat the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Eating a diet rich in whole-grains, calcium, fresh fruits, and vegetables is part of a balanced diet and has considerable health benefits.
Always check with your doctor to find out what kinds of food are appropriate for you and your symptoms. Your doctor may advise you of a specific diet to follow for your treatment. Remember, only your doctor can recommend the right diet for you. Here are some general guidelines:
Get enough calcium. It helps keep bones strong. Milk and cheese are good calcium sources.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Their fiber can help prevent constipation.
Cut your food into small pieces to aid in chewing and swallowing.
Chew slowly and swallow carefully to avoid choking.
Drink plenty of water between bites.
Talk to your doctor about special cups and utensils that may make eating easier for you.
Ask your doctor if you should avoid any foods that could interfere with other medications you may be taking. Your doctor can recommend other appropriate protein sources if needed.
Be Sure to Tell Your Doctor:
If you start or stop smoking while you are taking REQUIP XL. Smoking may decrease the treatment effect of REQUIP XL.
If you drink alcoholic beverages. This may increase your chances of becoming drowsy or sleepy while taking REQUIP XL.
Prescription REQUIP XL is not for everyone. REQUIP XL may cause you to fall asleep or feel very sleepy during normal activities such as driving; or to faint or feel dizzy, nauseated, or sweaty when you stand up. Tell your doctor if you experience these or the following problems, or if you drink alcohol or are taking other medicines that make you drowsy. Side effects may include nausea, dizziness, drowsiness or sleepiness, headache, and sudden uncontrolled movements (dyskinesia). Increase or decrease in blood pressure and heart rate may occur. Hallucinations may occur at any time during treatment. Also tell your doctor if you experience new or increased gambling, sexual, or other intense urges while taking REQUIP XL. REQUIP XL may increase the side effects of L-dopa. Most patients were not bothered enough to stop taking REQUIP XL.