Influence of posture during mastication on body composition and nutritional intake in people with Down syndrome [Dataset]

Abstract

Introduction. Down syndrome is associated with muscular hypotonia and feeding problems. The aim was to assess the prevalence of overweight/obesity in people with Down syndrome and how postural alterations during mastication influenced their body composition, food intake and consumption. Methods. Descriptive cross-sectional study with 48 participants (8-45 years). Results. 35.4% were obese and/or overweight; those with postural alterations had a lower BMI (p=0.022) and a lower percentage of body fat (p=0.005). There were significant differences in saturated fat intake (p=0.008), with 22.9% excessive intake among those without postural alterations. There was also an excessive intake of group B vitamins and of vitamins C and K. In contrast, vitamins E and D were consumed below the recommended intake. P, Fe and Cu were consumed in excess by more than 50% of the sample. Conclusions. Continue studying masticatory posture to improve food handling and dietary diversity.