Living with Parkinson’s Disease can disrupt the delicate balance of your circadian rhythm, the natural body clock that regulates sleep, wakefulness, metabolism, and even mood. Many people with Parkinson’s experience difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling rested. This article explores how light exposure, eating patterns, and movement timing can help realign your body clock, improving daily functioning and overall well-being.
Understanding Circadian Rhythm Disruptions in Parkinson’s Disease
The circadian rhythm is governed by a small area of the brain called the suprachiasmatic nucleus, which responds to light and signals the body when to feel alert or sleepy. In Parkinson’s Disease, disruptions in dopamine signalling and neurodegeneration can affect this internal clock, often leading to daytime fatigue, insomnia, or restless nights.
These disruptions can compound other Parkinson’s symptoms, making effective management crucial. Learn more about how I support Parkinson’s clients with personalised nutrition and lifestyle approaches on my nutrition services page.
How Light Exposure Helps Reset the Clock
Light is one of the most powerful regulators of circadian rhythm. Getting natural sunlight in the morning can help signal to your brain that it’s time to wake up, supporting daytime alertness and setting the stage for restful sleep later on. Avoiding bright lights in the evening, including blue light from screens, is equally important to signal the body to wind down.
The Role of Eating Patterns
Meal timing can influence the circadian clock. Eating at irregular hours or late at night can confuse the body’s internal signals, while sticking to regular mealtimes reinforces predictable daily rhythms. Including a balanced mix of whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of vegetables can support digestive and metabolic health, further strengthening your natural rhythm.
If you need help crafting a nutrition plan that aligns with your unique needs, explore my plans and pricing page.
Movement and Activity Timing
Exercise is another powerful cue for regulating circadian rhythm. Light to moderate exercise earlier in the day can help promote alertness, while excessive activity late in the evening may interfere with falling asleep. Simple strategies like a mid-morning walk or gentle stretching after lunch can have a meaningful impact on maintaining a stable body clock.
Practical Tips to Restore Balance
✔ Prioritise consistent wake and sleep times
✔ Get natural sunlight in the morning
✔ Maintain regular mealtimes
✔ Limit screen time before bed
✔ Engage in light exercise earlier in the day
For more guidance on how to tailor these tips to your Parkinson’s journey, visit my about page to learn how I work with clients to create practical, sustainable plans.
If you’re ready to take control of your sleep and daily rhythm, I invite you to book your discovery call. Together, we can create a personalised roadmap to help you feel more balanced, supported, and energised every day.
