Down syndrome nutrition

There are a lot of stories and myths swirling around Down syndrome nutrition today, and some of them just don’t apply any more. One myth is that kids with Down syndrome always grow up to be overweight.

It is true that they may have a more challenging time keeping themselves to a healthy weight. Some have thyroid problems which can slow metabolism, and low muscle tone can affect the desire and motivation to exercise and move around more. And the love that many people with Down syndrome have for fast food really can play a role in weight gain.

But with a healthy diet and enough exercise (and possibly needed medication), there’s no reason a person with DS can’t maintain a healthy weight.

The fact remains, however, that sometimes it really is difficult for anyone to keep themselves at a healthy weight. That’s why it’s helpful to get your child into some kind of sport early on. It could be dance, soccer, basketball, cheerleading, weightlifting, or karate--or anything else that burns calories and the child enjoys.

Down syndrome nutrition

Sometimes proper nutrition can be difficult due to sensory issues. Kids with DS are notoriously picky eaters! There are vitamins (liquid and chewables) you can give to help with maintaining good nutrition.

Getting enough liquids in can be an issue as well. My daughter, for example, has a problem drinking out of a sippy cup. She just doesn’t like it. And she enjoys dumping the milk out of a regular cup rather than drinking it! We’ve found that using straws have really helped.

Learn More About:

• Will your baby get leukemia?
• A look at possibilities for the future
• See how your baby can "talk" to you before they can speak
• Down syndrome symptoms

from down syndrome nutrition to home