What problems can people with a learning disability have with their diet?
People with a learning disability have a greater incidence of health problems. It is well established that they are nutritionally vulnerable.1 Studies investigating weight status in people with a learning disability have found that there are greater proportions of both overweight and underweight people with a learning disability than in people who do not have a learning disability2. Historically many people with a learning disability lived in long stay hospitals and many nutritional problems have been found in these people. These problems can include the following: Underweight. This leads to less resistance to infections and less resistance to pressure sores. Overweight Constipation Dehydration SpecificDehydration Specific nutrient deficiencies.3 Many people who used to live in these institutions have now moved to the community. A move to the community can bring nutritional improvements if care staff are trained in nutrition and understand their clients special needs. Diet and people w
People with a learning disability have a greater incidence of health problems. It is well established that they are nutritionally vulnerable.1 Studies investigating weight status in people with a learning disability have found that there are greater proportions of both overweight and underweight people with a learning disability than in people who do not have a learning disability2. Historically many people with a learning disability lived in long stay hospitals and many nutritional problems have been found in these people. These problems can include the following: Underweight. This leads to less resistance to infections and less resistance to pressure sores. Overweight Constipation Dehydration SpecificDehydration Specific nutrient deficiencies.3 Many people who used to live in these institutions have now moved to the community. A move to the community can bring nutritional improvements if care staff are trained in nutrition and understand their clients special needs.
