How much protein is too much?
 

I've just started l-dopa therapy and have been immersed in research that points out not to ingest protein-rich foods when taking prescribed amounts of Sinemet.

However, multiple authoritive sources proclaim conflicting statements as to what constitutes "a reactive amount of protein."

So, I understand the "why" and that the idea is not to hoover a 12oz rib-eye and a dose of 25/100 at the same time, but are there non-effective / acceptable or qualitative amounts of foods containing protein? Can I (for example) have a dozen almonds with the granola for breakfast? Or a cup of yogurt with the fruit? (It seems that a small amount of dairy is helping to prevent any nausea – so far.)

Thx,
John

practical approach
 

My take on this is that the obvious proteins, meat, eggs, fish, milk and dairy products are the biggest problem. I find the more easily digestible ones an issue, but not nuts and whole grains with high protein content. Others may have a different experience. Leaving protein rich food out till evening is effective for some, giving them better response to their medication. Personally I find that overindulgence in anything heavy in protein late in the day results in poor response the next morning, so I take a little and light approach. Only way to really know is to watch how you respond and tailor your intake to your own needs.

Lindy

Hi, John,

Response to protein is so individual. I was diagnosed 5 years ago, but was able to eat anything at anytime without affecting my body's response to the l-dopa. Now, though, I am extremely sensitive to protein in my diet. It has evolved over the past year or so. Yet, a friend of mine has had PD for 15 years and has no conflict at all between her meals and her meds.

My humble suggestion is for you to eat normally for now and merely pay attention to your symptoms. The information you have been reading is correct, but it doesn't mean everybody with PD is going to experience a reaction to dietary protein right away. Tuck this bit of info away for now. If you find further along that your meds don't kick in very well after you eat, then this will be a very useful clue to consider.

By the way, like protein, Sinemet is absorbed in the small gut, just after it leaves the stomach. Both compete for absorption at the same sites - in the gut and at the blood brain barrier.

Chow now brown cow!
Skelly