Recently diagnosed and due to start medication next week but I have lost about 3 Kg in the last 3 months. Is this normal? My appetite is fine and I am eating normally but I have cut right down on the beer and wine, so maybe thats part of it. Or does early Parkinson’s naturally cause weight loss?
Hello Rob28 … I think it’s you drinking less beer [well done]. I have not lost any weight through Parkinson’s.
Best wishes
Steve2
Thanks Steve 2 but its no feat cutting down. I just cant drink as much anymore. Wish I could sometimes. A couple of beers and a couple of wines 2 or 3 times a week is more than enough now and I’ve not even started on Levodopa until next week. Probably be even worse then
Hi Rob28 … A lot of the medication I take advises … NO ALCOHOL !!! Good job I’m teetotal otherwise I’d miss it.
Steve2
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Hi Rob28, yes some symptoms of Parkinson’s may cause you to lose weight. We have more information about this on our website here: Weight loss and weight gain in Parkinson's | Parkinson's UK
If you have any concerns we recommend reaching out to your GP or Parkinson’s Nurse, or you can call our free helpline for advice: 0808 800 0303.
Best wishes
Freya
Parkinson’s UK Moderation Team
Hi Rob,
I lost 2 stones in weight after being diagnosed, I have been unable to put any on, despite eating well (plus the odd glass of wine) . My husband persuaded me to go for a check up at the doctors, but thankfully he could not find any underlying cause. I’ve stopped worrying about it! Take care.
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Losing 3 kg in three months sounds pretty normal, especially if you’ve cut down on alcohol. I remember when I was trying to shed some pounds, I noticed a big difference when I limited my beer intake too. As for the weight loss linked to early Parkinson’s, I think it can happen since the body reacts differently with changes in health.
I lost 3 kilos after the doctor in Singapore prescribed increase in Madopar…felt like I was on speed. Have since reduced and now weight is stable