Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) 2.3 Practice Exam

Patients with Parkinson's Disease often experience a range of nutrition-related concerns due to the effects of the disease on the motor system and its symptoms. Dry mouth and nausea are particularly relevant as they can significantly impact a patient’s ability to eat and drink adequately.

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, can arise from the medications commonly prescribed for Parkinson's, which may reduce salivary flow, making it difficult for patients to swallow and enjoy their food. Nausea can occur as a side effect of medications or as part of the disease itself, further complicating nutritional intake and potentially leading to inadequate caloric consumption.

The other options do not represent the primary concerns associated with Parkinson’s Disease. While weight gain can occur in some cases due to decreased physical activity, it is not universally prevalent among all patients. Overeating during meals and food aversions to healthy foods are also less common issues compared to the more direct consequences of dry mouth and nausea, which require careful management in a nutrition plan tailored to the patient's needs.