Optimal Nutrition Diet for Patients with Down Syndrome

Eating healthy is important for everyone in the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle, but it can create a huge difference in individuals who have Down syndrome. People with this condition have a slow metabolism, digestive issues, or sensitivities to some foods. No worries, a well-balanced diet can help improve overall condition and health. By choosing the correct foods, the parents and carers can keep their loved one energetic, well-weighted, and free of common health complications. Let us find out the good and the bad foods that will help someone with Down syndrome to have a healthier diet.

What is Down Syndrome?

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder resulting from having an extra copy of chromosome 21. It leads to growth restriction, mental retardation, and a weakened physical body. In general, this disorder results in some medical complications such as diarrhea, flaccidity, and an increased likelihood of obesity.

With a plethora of treatment options available today, healthy dietary habits go hand in hand with the effective treatment of such cases. There still exists innovative, experimental treatment concerning Down syndrome using stem cell therapy, in that it attempts to enhance the thought process through neuronal progenitor generation in an individual. You could book a consultation with Global Stem Cell Care regarding stem cell treatment.

What to Eat for Better Health?

Foods with Protein

Taking protein in your diet is important for muscle development and overall growth of the body. You can include lean meats like:

• Eggs
• Chicken
• Turkey
• Fish

If you don’t like meat, you always eat other alternatives like tofu, lentils,

yogurt, and cottage cheese. They are also excellent sources of protein.

Opt for Healthy Fats 

Eating healthy fats supports brain function and reduces inflammation. You can include some of these foods, such as:

• Olive oil
• Avocados
• Nuts (almonds, walnuts)
• Fatty fish (salmon, tuna)

Also, some other sources are chia seeds and flaxseeds, great for omega-3 fatty acids.

Foods with Fiber

Patients with Down syndrome experience digestive problems like constipation. Eating fiber helps keep digestion smooth. You can add these whole grains to your diet:

• Quinoa
• Brown rice
• Oats
• Whole wheat bread

Adding fresh fruits and vegetables, especially apples, pears, carrots, and spinach, to your diet are excellent choices.

Look for Vitamin D & Calcium

For having strong bones is important for an individual with Down syndrome, who is prone to low bone density. You can include these dairy products, like:

• Milk
• Cheese
• Yogurt

For lactose intolerant people, can opt for almonds, tofu broccoli, and fortified plant-based milk. Although spending time in the sunlight also helps with vitamin D.

Vitamin-Rich Foods

Eating foods with antioxidants helps build a stronger body that can fight against disease. Dark leafy greens, tomatoes, bell peppers, and berries (strawberries, blueberries) are some of the best sources. Try green tea for a healthy dose of antioxidants.

Things to Avoid for Maintaining Good Health

High Sugar and Refined Foods

Say no to fast foods, sugary breakfast cereals, candies, and packaged snacks, which have been known to cause weight gain and other health complications. Instead, opt for more natural, whole foods to keep energy levels up and nutrition in order.

Too Much Salt

Too much salt tends to exacerbate heart conditions. Avoid canned soups, processed meat, and packaged salty snacks. It’s even better to prepare a fresh meal of spices and herbs.

Unhealthy Fats

Eating processed oils and margarine-fried foods on a regular basis increases the inflammation in one’s body system. Instead of these, use nuts and seeds as well as olive oil, which is an excellent healthy nut.

Artificial Additives & Preservatives

Consuming artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives in a lot of processed foods is poisonous to one’s overall health. Eat home-cooked, organic food whenever possible.

Stem Cell Therapy for Down Syndrome

If diet change alone is unable to manage the condition, it is likely you will seek additional treatments. Recently, more emphasis has been on stem cell therapy. The theory behind the concept of stem cell therapy is the potential for enhancement of brain activity, development in cognitive capabilities, and quality improvement in the general well-being of patients suffering from Down syndrome.

Global Stem Cell Care provides the most advanced stem cell therapy available, with an expert consultation to make the process easier. Their professionals will determine whether this particular therapy is right for you or your loved one, making it easier to decide on the procedure that suits you best. Contact Global Stem Cell Care today to book an appointment for this advanced therapy.