Nutrient Intake and Physical Activity of School-Aged Children with Trisomy 21 Living in Manitoba, Canada.

Background

Children and adults with Trisomy 21 are more likely to develop nutrition-related conditions and diseases. The nutrition-related health of Canadians with Trisomy 21 is unknown. We aimed to determine the nutrient intake and physical activity of school-aged children with Trisomy 21 in Manitoba, Canada.

Methods

Mothers of 14 school-aged children (n = 7 female, average age 9 years old) with Trisomy 21 completed a 24 h dietary recall and a survey that included questions about their children's nutrition and physical activity. Nutrient intake analysis was conducted to compare food and beverage consumption with dietary guidelines and nutrient recommendations. Data were analyzed descriptively.

Results

Most children with T21 included in this study consumed an adequate average intake of daily protein, carbohydrate, and iron; an inadequate average intake of daily dietary fibre and calcium; and an excessive average daily intake of added sugars and saturated fat. Notably, all children consumed inadequate vitamin D and excessive sodium. Most children consumed a dietary supplement (10/14), engaged in moderate-intensity physical activity (10/14), and were active for more than 60 min per day (12/14).

Conclusions

Most children with Trisomy 21 included in this study met daily physical activity recommendations. However, despite a variety of foods reportedly consumed across all food groups, nutrient intake among school-aged children with Trisomy 21 included in this study was mixed, as both deficiencies and excessive amounts of some nutrients were observed. There is a need to improve the nutrient intake of children with Trisomy 21 to reduce their risk of developing nutrition-related conditions and diseases.