Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neurological condition resulting from abnormal brain development or brain damage before, during, or shortly after birth. It’s one of the most common childhood physical disabilities, affecting one in four live births globally.
CP is associated with many symptoms, such as favoring one side of the body and weak or absent reflexes, but one that is often less well known is poor nutrition. If your child has CP and you want to ensure their nutritional needs are met, the information in this guide may prove helpful:
Benefits of Good Nutrition for People with Cerebral Palsy
Poor nutritional status is common in children with cerebral palsy, especially related to trouble chewing and swallowing, gastrointestinal complications, and metabolic demands. The more severe the motor impairment, the more challenging it can often be to meet nutritional needs. However, the benefits of good nutrition for living with CP can be substantial, including:
- Stronger bones, with calcium and vitamin D known to reduce bone weakness and decrease the risk of breaks
- Muscle support, with protein being crucial for building and repairing body tissues
- Better digestion, with high-fiber foods and fluids reducing the risk of stomach blockages and assisting with overall health and wellness
- More energy through balanced meals for fuel
When is Nutritional Intervention Required?
It’s never easy knowing when to request additional help for your child. However, nutritional intervention may be required if you relate to these signs:
- No weight gain or growth
- Low body fat stores for their age and height
- A deviation from an established growth pattern
- Micronutrient deficiencies, such as low iron or vitamin D
- Stress during feeding and mealtimes
- Aspiration risks
- Gastrointestinal problems, such as severe constipation, reflux, or vomiting
- Extended mealtimes that take longer than 30-60 minutes
After seeking support, specialists may perform an assessment and determine a nutritional strategy tailored to your child’s unique needs.
Nutritional Needs of Children with CP
The nutritional needs of children with CP are not all that dissimilar from those of children without it. They need a variety of vitamins and minerals like everyone else, including:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin K
- Magnesium
- Copper
- Zinc
- Manganese
However, their activity level and muscle tone can often determine whether they need more or fewer calories. Additionally, children who struggle to get enough nutrients in their diet due to feeding problems are more likely to have low bone density, making it extra important to get enough calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus. These vitamins and minerals are crucial for strengthening bones and teeth and helping absorb calcium.
How to Improve Nutritional Intake in Children with CP
Knowing the importance of good nutrition in children with cerebral palsy, there may come a time when you realize that your child needs additional support. Fortunately, several support options are available.
Start by making an appointment with your child’s doctor, who may then refer you to a dietitian. A speech-language therapist and an occupational therapist may also form part of your child’s new specialist team. Together, specialists will help craft a dietary plan to support healthy growth and weight maintenance.
Navigating nutrition in children with cerebral palsy is rarely easy. However, awareness of its importance and knowing when and where to seek help can go a long way toward helping your child meet their nutritional needs and supporting their overall wellness now and into the future.