Nutritional Concerns in Down Syndrome
Children with Down syndrome are more likely to develop obesity than the
general population. Obesity is very much a concern, as it tends to follow
an individual into adulthood, where it may place the person at risk for
various health conditions (such as diabetes). Obesity is a result both
of genetic predisposition (in "typical" populations as well)
and chronic imbalance in energy intake (food consumption) vs. energy expenditure
(activity). Research has elucidated some factors that may contribute to
obesity in children with Down syndrome. Children with Down syndrome have
a lower intracellular metabolic rate than "typical" peers. This
decreased rate results in lower energy requirements. Additionally, children
with Down syndrome typically have a smaller body size and rate of growth
than unaffected peers, which further reduces their energy needs. Specific
genes, present in a triple dose, may cause the decrease in intracellular
metabolism seen.
It appears that in children with Down syndrome body height is more positively
related to metabolic rate than is body weight. Thus, it is important to
calculate caloric requirements for individuals with Down syndrome based
upon their height. Children with Down syndrome should be educated concerning
obesity and cardiovascular risk factors just as any other individual.
It is also important to emphasize the importance of eating a balanced
diet, with adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals, when instituting
any caloric restrictions. Physical activity and exercise should be encouraged.
Farber, A.F.,Yanni, C.C., & Batshaw, M.L.(1997).
Nutrition: Good and bad. In M.L. Batshaw (Ed.), Children with disabilities
(pp.187). Baltimore, MD: Paul H. Brookes Publishing
Sustrova, M. and Pueschel, S.M.(1997). Nutritional
Concerns. In S.M. Pueschel & M. Sustrova (Eds.), Adolescents with
Down Syndrome: Toward a more fulfilling life (pp 17-19). Baltimore,
MD: Paul Brookes Publishing