Nicky Clark, a nutritional therapist based in Australia, specializes in providing tailored nutrition advice to parents of children with Down syndrome. She’s shared her expertise at various events, including the World Down Syndrome Congress in Brisbane and the Institute for Optimum Nutrition’s Nutrition Talks series.
Down syndrome, or Trisomy 21, is a genetic condition caused by the presence of an extra chromosome, often resulting in some learning disabilities. Clark emphasizes that while many of her recommendations apply to all children, there are unique challenges for those with Down syndrome, such as picky eating.
“Picky eating is a common issue,” she notes, adding that parents often worry extra about their child choking or having trouble breastfeeding, which can lead to accommodating their child’s eating habits too much. This, in turn, may worsen picky eating. Children with Down syndrome may also have sensory preferences, like a strong aversion to certain textures or tastes.
To tackle picky eating, Clark suggests gradually introducing healthier options. For example, if a child prefers chicken nuggets and fries, parents could aim for baked chicken with roasted potatoes and some carrot sticks on the side.
Moreover, Clark points out that children with Down syndrome often face challenges with low muscle tone, which can lead to difficulties in chewing. “Improper chewing can cause digestive problems, which are fairly common in these individuals,” she explains.
The solution? Encouraging mindful, slower eating during meals can help address these chewing issues and minimize digestive discomfort, such as tummy aches or constipation.
Another significant concern for individuals with Down syndrome is oxidative stress. Clark explains that this process can lead to premature aging and an increased risk of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. “Eating antioxidant-rich foods can help combat oxidative stress,” she advises, emphasizing the benefits of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fatty fish.
Clark suggests limiting sugar and refined carbohydrates, as these can exacerbate oxidative stress and increase risks associated with insulin resistance and weight gain. “Both sugar and refined carbs are converted to glucose in the body, potentially leading to similar detrimental effects,” she states.
She also highlights the importance of B vitamins for improving methylation processes associated with gene expression. “New research suggests newborns with Down syndrome might have abnormal methylation,” she mentions, recommending foods rich in B vitamins.
While some supplements targeted at Down syndrome propose high doses of B vitamins and antioxidants, Clark advises caution. “High doses can be risky without expert guidance. It’s essential to tailor supplements to individual needs,” she warns.
Finally, she incorporates the significance of zinc in diet, as it can support immune function and overall health, which are crucial for individuals with Down syndrome.
“Getting nutrition right is essential,” she affirms. “Food is a constant in life—unlike therapies that require conscious thought—it’s something that can greatly impact both physical and mental health.”
Clark concludes with encouragement for parents: “When families commit to improving nutrition, they often see significant positive changes in their children’s health and independence. It really shows how powerful food can be.”