Question about protein in the diet
 

I know protein in the diet should be avoided by PWP who are taking sinemet, as protein can block the absorption of the drug. But for those who are not taking drugs for their PD, should protein be avoided for the better part of the day as well. What I am wondering is if protein in the diet can interfere with my brains ability to make and use dopamine. I may begin taking Azilect, so does the protein restriction apply with this drug. Thanks for your thoughts.

Protein is essential in everyone's diet
 

Blackfeather,

There are several amino acids in protein that are required for normal nutrition, so it important that it be included in our diet. One of these essential amino acids is L-phenylalanine which your body needs in order to make dopamine.

Only if one is taking a drug containing L-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA), such as Sinemet, might there be interference by eating a lot of protein close to the same time as the drug.

It is my understanding that Azilect, which is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, is not affected at all by cosuming protein.

Robert