Nutrient intakes in long-stay mentally handicapped persons

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Public Health
• Disability Studies

Background:

• Dietary intake and nutritional status are critical for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
• Long-stay institutions may present unique challenges for maintaining optimal nutrition.
• Understanding the nutritional profiles of this population is essential for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the dietary intake and nutritional status of mentally handicapped individuals in long-stay institutions.
• To identify potential nutritional deficiencies or excesses.
• To explore factors influencing energy intake within this population.

Main Methods:

• A dietary intake study was conducted over 4 days using a semi-weighed technique.
• Participants included 115 males and 217 females aged 15-64 years in five long-stay institutions.
• Nutrient intake, body mass index (BMI), ambulatory status, and drug usage were assessed.

Main Results:

• 19% of males and 5% of females were underweight; 15% of males and 27% of females were obese.
• Average daily nutrient intakes included energy (8.8 MJ), protein (92g), carbohydrate (218g), fat (101g), and key micronutrients.
• Energy intake showed significant variation between institutions and sexes, but not with ambulatory status, cognitive level, drug use, or BMI.

Conclusions:

• Significant disparities in weight status (underweight and obesity) exist among mentally handicapped individuals in institutional settings.
• Dietary patterns and energy consumption vary considerably, highlighting the need for individualized nutritional assessments.
• Further research is warranted to understand the determinants of these variations and to optimize nutritional care for this vulnerable group.