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Introduction

Nutrition education opportunities for people with Down syndrome (DS) who are age 30 or older are limited to those that their parents and caregivers provide. For those that are currently in school, nutrition education is also limited, as it is not taught in depth. We will have the greatest impact on the nutrition status of people of all ages with Down syndrome if we take the time to teach good nutrition and healthy eating while following that lifestyle ourselves.

Dietary recommendations for people with Down syndrome across the lifespan are similar to those of the general population. Recommendations are based on the Food Guide Pyramid. They include limiting fat intake and including complex carbohydrates such as breads, cereals, starchy vegetables, legumes, rice, and pastas in the diet.

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This fact sheet was last updated on 12-21-2005.