Mindful Menus

As we age, good nutrition plays an important role in maintaining strength, energy, and overall quality of life. For individuals living with Parkinson's disease, eating well becomes especially important. Healthy food choices and regular physical activity are key parts of managing a wide variety of symptoms and supporting daily well-being. Supported by Baptist Health, Jax Hope brings the Mindful Menus for Healthy Eating Program to the aging community, beginning with our Mediterranean Diet Series.
The Mediterranean diet is a simple and healthy way of eating. It includes foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, nuts, olive oil, fish, and chicken. These foods give your body and brain the nutrients they need to stay strong as you age. Some studies show that people with Parkinson's who follow a Mediterranean-stye diet may have slower progression of the disease over time. This diet has been associated with improved blood sugar control and healthier cholesterol levels. Maintaining cardiovascular health supports adequate blood flow to the brain which is important for maintaining cognitive resilience, motor function and everyday activities.
The Mediterranean diet is flexible, affordable, and can be adapted to different preferences and cultural eating patterns. It focuses on simple foods that are easy to find and easy to prepare. Overall, this eating pattern can help everyone feel their best, stay active, and support their overall well-being.
Scroll down to view some sample recipes and click on the links to download more recipes from our Mediterranean diet series!
Greek Chicken Bowl
2 Chicken Breasts or thighs (16 oz total)
leftover chicken will be used in a different meal
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1/4 cup + 3 Tbs Olive oil, divided
1-2 Tbs fresh oregano, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry rice
1 cup water or broth
1/4 tsp salt (optional)
1/2 cucumber, halved and sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
(1/2 of a pint container)
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced or diced
1/4 cup pitted olives, sliced (optional)
1 Tbs (or dash) Red wine vinegar (if desired)
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled or cut into chunks
1/2 cup tzatziki, store bought or homemade.
Salt and pepper

Marinate Chicken: Mix lemon juice or vinegar, 2-3 Tbsp oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken and rest 20-30 minutes or skip marinating entirely.
Cook Chicken: Pan-cook or bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.
Save for the later lunch recipe.
Cook Rice: Prepare 1 cup cooked rice using whatever grain you have.
Prep Veggies: Use fresh, canned, or thawed frozen vegetables;
season with a little oil, vinegar or lemon, salt, and pepper.
Assemble Bowls : Rice • Veggies • Chicken • Yogurt/Tzatziki
Optional: Cheese or Olives
Budget-friendly Chicken Pita Wraps
1- 1 1/2 cups leftover sliced chicken
2 whole wheat pitas
1/4 cup hummus or tzatziki sauce from previous meals
1/2 cucumber, diced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
(1/4 of a pint container)
2 Tbs feta, crumbled or cut into chunks
Squeeze of lemon or dash of red wine vinegar
Warm pitas, tortillas, or bread if possible
(microwave or pan-heat).
Reheat leftover chicken with a splash of water or oil.
Add vegetables—fresh, canned (drained), or cooked leftovers.
Spread hummus/yogurt/bean spread.
Fill with chicken and veggies.
Add optional cheese and a squeeze of lemon or vinegar.
Serve warm with extra yogurt or bean dip on the side.


