| Abstract [eng] |
This dissertation investigates the dietary habits of patients with Parkinson’s disease and their associations with both motor and non-motor symptoms, as well as the role of adherence to the Mediterranean diet in the odds of Parkinson’s disease and its clinical characteristics. The study included patients with Parkinson’s disease and age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Dietary habits, dietary intake, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and their associations with the clinical characteristics of Parkinson’s disease were assessed. Patients with Parkinson’s disease did not fully meet the recommended daily nutrient intakes, with insufficient consumption of dietary fiber and vitamins A and D being the most common deficiencies. Compared with healthy controls, patients consumed more carbohydrates, plant protein, and dietary fiber, while a lower proportion of total energy intake was derived from fat. An association between greater adherence to the Mediterranean diet and lower odds of Parkinson’s disease was observed only after adjustment for demographic and lifestyle factors. Greater adherence to the Mediterranean diet was also associated with lower odds of anxiety, depressive mood, pain, and urinary dysfunction. These findings highlight the importance of nutrition in the clinical course of Parkinson’s disease and support the implementation of individualized dietary recommendations in patient care. |
