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Clean Eating for Parkinson's Part 2: Mindful Choices and Flavorful Solutions

  • Writer: Carolee Horner
    Carolee Horner
  • May 8
  • 2 min read

Check-In: Building Ingredient Awareness


In the previous post, you might have set a clean eating intention—maybe you tried reading a label, swapped out a snack, or just paid a bit more attention to what’s in your food. Was there anything on an ingredient list that surprised you? Did you notice any dyes, preservatives, or added sugars that you hadn’t seen before?


If something caught your eye or made you curious, make a note in your Parkinson’s notebook or share it in the comments. Simply noticing these details is a big step toward making more informed choices.

Beakers filled with blue, green, and red fluid

Overcoming Common Barriers


Change isn’t always easy, especially with PD. If you felt resistance—fatigue, overwhelm, or uncertainty—know that’s normal. Reflect on where the resistance is coming from and explore simpler solutions.  For example, if dinner feels too hard to change, start with breakfast or a snack.  If you need to reach for processed foods, try choosing those with healthier ingredients. 

People are often worried that eating clean will be more expensive but it doesn’t have to be.  Skipping the fun/convenience food aisle and choosing frozen veggies or fruits instead of canned can actually save money and support better outcomes for PD.


Man shopping for food


Navigating Taste Changes


Many people with Parkinson’s notice changes in their sense of taste or smell—sometimes food just doesn’t taste the way it used to, and that can be frustrating or discouraging. If this is your experience, you’re not alone. To further complicate things, processed foods often ramp up flavor with salt and sugar, which is boring for your taste buds.  Instead, experiment with natural ways to boost both flavor and nutrition:

                  •               Herbs and spices (like basil, rosemary, cumin, chili powder)

                  •               Citrus (lemon or lime juice and zest)

                  •               Vinegars (balsamic, apple cider)

                  •               Aromatics (garlic, ginger, scallions, onions)

These additions can make meals more interesting and add valuable antioxidants and phytonutrients that support brain health. Add these to the processed foods you are eating as well!  Fresh is best but dried or jarred work too.  If taste is still a challenge, try focusing on texture, temperature, and color for variety and enjoyment. Remember, even small changes can help you discover new ways to nourish yourself, and it’s okay if your preferences shift over time.



Ground spices on spoons

 

Try This: Food Detective Challenge


This week, look up one or more packaged foods in the EWG Food Scores database. What did you learn? Did it change how you feel about that food? Share your discovery in the comment. If you tried a new swap or noticed a positive change, let the community know—your experience can inspire others.


Clean eating with Parkinson’s is about progress, not perfection. Keep making small, meaningful changes and notice how your body responds. If you have questions or want more support, reach out or join the conversation below. You’re not alone on this journey!


Until next time – wishing you peace, love, and veggies.


Carolee

 
 
 

3 Comments


Belinda
Belinda
Aug 15

I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease four years ago. For over two years, I relied on Levodopa and several other medications, but unfortunately, the symptoms kept getting worse. The tremors became more noticeable, and my balance and mobility started to decline quickly. Last year, out of desperation and hope, I decided to try a herbal treatment program from NaturePath Herbal Clinic.

Honestly, I was skeptical at first, but within a few months of starting the treatment, I began to notice real changes. My movements became smoother, the tremors subsided, and I felt steadier on my feet. Incredibly, I also regained much of my energy and confidence. It’s been a life-changing experience I feel more like myself again, better than I’ve…

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Darry Marci
Darry Marci
Jul 13
After years of struggling with advanced Parkinson’s and finding little relief through conventional treatments, I turned to EarthCure Herbal Clinic and it changed everything. Their personalized herbal program significantly reduced my tremors, improved my mobility, and restored my energy. For the first time in years, I feel hopeful and in control of my life again. I’m truly grateful to Earthcure Herbal Clinic(www. earthcureherbalclinic. com) and highly recommend their approach to anyone facing Parkinson’s or similar challenges, Email them at info(AT)earthcureherbalclinic .com now to get started.
After years of struggling with advanced Parkinson’s and finding little relief through conventional treatments, I turned to EarthCure Herbal Clinic and it changed everything. Their personalized herbal program significantly reduced my tremors, improved my mobility, and restored my energy. For the first time in years, I feel hopeful and in control of my life again. I’m truly grateful to Earthcure Herbal Clinic(www. earthcureherbalclinic. com) and highly recommend their approach to anyone facing Parkinson’s or similar challenges, Email them at info(AT)earthcureherbalclinic .com now to get started.

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Baßcito
Baßcito
Jul 07

For 7 years, I suffered from Parkinson’s, tremors, stiffness, sleepless nights, and countless failed treatments. Nothing from the medical field helped, and I was losing hope. Then I found EarthCureHerbalClinic .com. Skeptical but desperate, I began their holistic healing program. Within weeks, my symptoms started improving. Over time, they completely disappeared. Today, I’m symptom-free, no more tremors, no more fatigue. EarthCure didn’t just treat me, they healed me. I’m beyond grateful. Thank you, EarthCure Herbal Clinic, for giving me my life back.

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Meet
Carolee Horner

Functional Nutritionist + Health Coach

Hey there! I'm Carolee Horner, a Functional Nutritionist and Health Coach (NBC-HWC) with a passion for helping people with Parkinson's nourish their bodies and live their best lives.  My approach focuses on personalized nutrition plans and practical strategies tailored to your lifestyle. 

Ready to nourish your life with Parkinson's?  I'm here to guide you at every step  – with knowledge, support, and hopefully a little laughter along the way.

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Carolee Horner, MS, NBC

carolee@nutritionforpd.com

Atlanta, GA

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Medical Disclaimer: I am not a medical doctor and cannot diagnose medical conditions, prescribe, or discontinue medication, though I am happy to collaborate with your primary physician as part of a complete care team. The information on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice. Please consult your doctor for medical advice.

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