We’re smack dab in the middle of soup season, and the PMD Alliance team wants to share our favorite recipes and kitchen hacks with you!
We all know that a good soup can really hit the spot. But it can also be a nourishing, flexible option for people living with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and other movement disorders. In addition to providing nutritious comfort, soups can support hydration, simplify mealtimes, and adapt to changing needs…making them a helpful part of everyday wellness.
Why Soup Can Be Helpful for People with Parkinson’s
– Gentle and Easier to Eat – Parkinson’s can affect chewing and swallowing over time, which increases the risk of aspiration pneumonia – the leading cause of death in PD.
– Packed with Nutrition – Soups are an easy way to bring together vegetables, beans, whole grains, and lean proteins in one bowl, supporting the research-proven link between nutrition and slowing Parkinson’s progression.
– Supports Hydration – Soups can help boost daily fluid intake while adding flavor and variety beyond water alone.
– Adaptable For Medication Needs – For some, protein timing matters when taking medications. Soups can easily be adjusted to be lower in protein when needed or enjoyed in smaller portions throughout the day without disrupting medication routines.
Staff’s Favorite Recipes
“I triple the garlic and add kale or spinach if I have it.”
– Andréa Merriam-Crespo, CEO
2. Pasta Fagioli in a Crockpot
Recommended by Julie Perlin, Director of Operations
3. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Recommended by Clemie Alvarez-Pizzillo, MSc, Director of Community Engagement
4. Cozy Potato Chowder
Recommended by Kelly Papesh, NP, Clinical Director
5. Avgolemono (Greek Lemon Chicken Soup)
Recommended by Ke’yana Hatfield, Volunteer Coordinator
6. Grandma’s Chili
“I like to add some hot sauce too.”
– Philip Giles, Associate Director of Communications
“Served with a side of Goldfish Crackers…of course.”
– Calissa Schneider, ACSM EP-C, Senior Manager of Certified Care
Favorite Soup Tips and Tricks
– Appliances – The right soup appliance can make all the difference. Check out an article shared by PMD Alliance Ambassador Judy Reynolds.
– Buy Pre-Diced Produce – Many grocery stores sell pre-diced carrots, celery, onions and more.
– RecipeBox App – This App generates a basic, easy-to-read recipe card from a link and saves it. No more scrolling through articles or forgetting which recipe you found was the good one.
– Spice Up Pre-Made Soups – Support Group Leader Jim doesn’t cook, but he loves adding fresh vegetables to make his pre-made soup more nutritious.
– SuperCook Recipe Generator App – Don’t want to go to the grocery store? This App takes what you already have in your pantry and will turn it into a meal for you.
