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Dear Ralph, > I would be grateful for nutritional information on how to AVOID becoming > constipated. For many, if not most PWP, there is peristalsis, or slowing, of the gastrointestinal tract.-the throat muscles may not move food as quickly to the stomach -the stomach often takes longer to process the food and empty it into the small intestine (gastroparesis) -the small intestine may take longer to move the bolus of food throughout its length and empty it into the colon -the muscles of the colon move much more slowly, so the bolus remains in the colon longer, turning dry and hard and becoming difficult to pass Fiber and fluid are more necessary for PWP than for most others. Fiber soaks up fluid and holds it as it passes thru the GI tract. In the colon, it helps the fecal matter to remain soft, even though the colon isn't moving as quickly as it should. Fiber also acts to lower risk of colorectal cancer -- this risk is increased with chronic constipation. I recommend drinking plenty of water -- at least two quarts a day -- especially as the PD meds such as Eldepryl and Sinemet may lead to fluid loss due to polyuria (urinating more than usual), and/or excess sweating. Besides needing fluid to help alleviate constipation, PWP frequently are treated for urinary tract infections due to chronic dehydration. I also recommend eating whole grains (whole wheat, oats, brown rice, whole rye, etc.) and cooked dried beans (kidney beans, baked beans, etc.) as often as possible. Fruits and vegetables are also rich in fiber, and protective against cancer. > Also, does "5 helpings of fruits & vegetables daily" mean 5 of BOTH fruits > & vegs, or 5 of EACH - as suggested in the nutritional "pyramid" often > seen on food packages? Five a day means at least 3 servings of vegetables and 2 of fruit. That's for a small or inactive woman. Larger or more active women, and men, need extra servings, depending on size and activity level. My very best regards, Kathrynne -- Kathrynne Holden, MS, RD "Nutrition you can live with!" Medical nutrition therapy http://www.nutritionucanlivewith.com/ Tel: 970-493-6532 // Fax: 970-493-6538