Nutrition specialty

Neurological Health

Nutrition care for Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions, for patients and the loved ones who support them.

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Dietitians for this specialty

Marissa

In partnership with

Chase Family Movement Disorders Center at Hartford HealthCare

Through this partnership, we make it easy for patients to access comprehensive care, aligning our nutrition strategies with neurological treatments and therapies.

Why It Matters

1 in 2

people with Parkinson’s experiences constipation, one of the most common non-motor symptoms.

7.4 million

Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s, about 1 in 9.

Nutrients

Omega-3s, B-vitamins, and antioxidants are associated with improved cognitive function and reduced progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

Malnutrition

Complications from ALS, MS, and stroke recovery can be worsened by malnutrition.

Hydration

Inadequate fluid intake can lead to dehydration and increased confusion in people with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Could This Be You (or a Loved One)?

Living with Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other movement disorders

Experiencing unintended weight loss, reduced appetite, or muscle loss

Having difficulty chewing, swallowing, or maintaining adequate hydration

Struggling with meal prep, food access, or forgetting to eat

Experiencing constipation, nausea, or early fullness due to neurological changes

Looking to support brain function and slow disease progression through targeted nutrition

A caregiver needing practical guidance to reduce stress at meals and support independence

Neurological Concerns We Support

Parkinson’s Disease

A progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, coordination, digestion, and quality of life.

How we help

Address digestive challenges such as constipation and delayed gastric emptying
Coordinate protein intake to minimize interference with medications like levodopa
Incorporate brain-supportive nutrition, including antioxidant-rich foods and the Mediterranean diet, to reduce neuroinflammation and support cognition
Support weight stability and nutritional adequacy to reduce hospitalization risk and preserve strength

Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia

Progressive conditions that affect memory, cognition, appetite, and the ability to manage meals independently.

How we help

Support intake with familiar, easy-to-eat foods that fit preferences and routines
Calming, structured mealtime routines to reduce frustration
Personalized caregiver strategies to ease mealtime stress and promote dignity and comfort
Texture modifications for safe, easier chewing and swallowing
High-calorie, nutrient-dense options to maintain weight and meet nutritional needs

Other Movement & Neurodegenerative Disorders

Including ALS, MS, ataxia, Huntington’s disease, and post-stroke recovery: conditions that affect physical function, swallowing, metabolism, and overall nutritional status.

How we help

Energy-dense, nutrient-rich meals to support weight maintenance, muscle mass, and daily energy needs
Safe textures and evidence-based supplements to promote independence and ease of eating
Identify and address nutrient deficiencies commonly linked to fatigue, inflammation, and reduced mobility

Not sure where you fit?

Our Practice Administrator can match you with the dietitian who specializes in your concern.

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How We Help

Brain-Supportive Nutrition

Focus on nutrients like B12, omega-3s, choline, and antioxidants to support cognition and neuroprotection.

Swallowing & Chewing Support

Recommend safe food textures, nutrient-dense meals, and hydration strategies for those with dysphagia.

Weight & Energy Management

Prevent malnutrition with energy-dense, easy-to-eat meals that maintain muscle and weight.

Meal Planning Simplification

Provide caregiver guidance, easy-prep meal ideas, and structured routines to reduce overwhelm.

GI Symptom Management

Address constipation, early fullness, and gut-brain concerns to improve nutrient absorption and quality of life.

Independence Support

Create meal plans that promote independence while accommodating mobility or cognitive challenges.

Care Team Collaboration

Coordinate with neurologists, therapists, and caregivers so nutrition strategies align with treatment plans.

Session Topics & Timeline

Visit 1

Full Clinical Assessment

A nutrition risk check, including weight changes and appetite
A review of what you eat, how much, and what gets in the way
Finding the root causes behind eating challenges
A gentle eating structure to start, such as small, frequent meals, plus energy-dense nutrition drinks if appropriate
A focus on healing, strength, and resilience

Visits 2–4

Energy Structure

Your personalized nutrition targets for calories, protein, fiber, and more
A rhythm of 3 meals and 2–3 snacks a day
Troubleshooting early challenges like medication timing and texture changes
Ways to pack more energy into smaller portions

Visits 5–6

Nutrient Density

Nutrient-dense cooking made simple
How eating feels emotionally, and what that means for you
Gentle intuitive eating principles
Simple ways to keep track of intake, if helpful
How your medications and meals interact, and the best timing for both

Visits 7–8

Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition & Gut Support

Anti-inflammatory foods
Gut support for motility, bloating, and constipation
Prebiotic fibers and fermented foods, if tolerated

Visits 9–10

Sustainable Habits

A focus on what your body can do, not how it looks
Flexible, sustainable food habits
Long-term nutrition to support movement and activity

Visit timing is a guide. Your dietitian adjusts the pace to your needs.