Down syndrome (DS) is a genetic disorder in which there is chromosomal instability on the 21st chromosome. Those suffering from DS have a diverse degree of disturbances in their brain development and function. In addition, there are other health problems linked throughout their body like cardiac defects, gut problems, and thyroid abnormalities along with nutritional diseases. Thus, they usually share common phenotypic features such as narrow slanted eyes, flat nose, large tongue, and short stature.
According to the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), individuals with DS have an inherent metabolic risk factor of developing nutritional disorders like food intolerance, malabsorption, and obesity. Almost half of the children born with DS have congenital heart defects, breathing difficulty, thyroid, and intestinal problems. Furthermore, their genetic predisposition increases the chances of associated health conditions later in life. All these medical conditions make caregiving for children with DS challenging on many levels.
On the other hand, Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute (INDI) suggests that early dietary interventions by parents or guardians of DS children can greatly help in delaying some of the DS-associated medical problems from appearing, thus significantly decreasing their risk and impacting the quality of their life.
Here are five health tips that can serve as a dietary intervention for children with Down Syndrome:
1. Emphasize healthy choices of food (like fiber, fruits, and vegetables) and if necessary, add a thickening agent to food during feeding- Individuals with Down Syndrome suffer from low muscle tone or hypotonia that contributes to problems in feeding and constipation. Changing the consistency aids in swallowing and fiber-rich foods help in alleviating constipation.
2. Incorporate plenty of fluid by offering regular drinks or foods with a high-water content- Some younger children with Down Syndrome often have difficulty achieving their daily fluid requirement.
3. Be mindful of the portion sizes in serving food- Choosing appropriate food portions sizes helps in achieving moderation in the diet.
4. Make healthy options for snacks and better prepare foods at home- Use Pinggang Pinoy as a guide in food selection and in preparing nutritious meals.
5. Encourage regular activity/ exercise as part of everyday routine- Inactivity is a risk factor for obesity. Emphasizing physical fitness during childhood could help in maintaining ideal weight.
These healthy tips could greatly help in coping and addressing the nutritional challenges that are associated with their condition. Hence, just like anyone else, individuals with Down Syndrome are no exception in leading a healthy lifestyle.
/JBVC
References:
National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). Healthy Eating Habits for Children with Down Syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.ndss.org/resources/nutrition/
Irish Nutrition and Dietetics Institute (INDI). Down Syndrome and Nutrition. Retrieved from https://www.indi.ie/diseases,-allergies-and-medical-conditions/disability/396-down-syndrome-and-nutrition
Global Syndrome Foundation. Food for Thought: Addressing Feeding and Swallowing Challenges. Retrieved from https://www.globaldownsyndrome.org/food-thought-addressing-feeding-swallowing-challenges
