Mediterranean diet and physical activity in Down syndrome pediatric subjects: the DONUT STUDY

Introduction Children with Down syndrome (DS) are characterised by peculiar dietary choices and approach to physical activity. The aim of this study is to quantify their adherence to the Mediterranean diet, their level of physical activity and lipid profile. Methods Cross-sectional study, involving 61 children affected by DS. Parents of the patients were requested to complete two questionnaires, Mediterranean Diet Quality Index in children and adolescents (KIDMED) and Godin Leisure-Time Physical Activity Questionnaire (Godin). In addition, children underwent a venous sampling to check their lipid profile. Results High scores on KIDMED and Godin were found and were associated with a reduced likelihood of being overweight or obese (0.001< p < 0.077; 0.001< p < 0.248). The level of physical activity and the probability of finding pathological HDL values in plasma were inversely related (0.001< p < 0.263). Conclusions The DONUT study proves that KIDMED and Godin questionnaires can identify children affected by DS that can lead to develop inadequate anthropometric variables and low levels of HDL cholesterol. Moreover, the results of this study show that, despite potential difficulties in the pursuit of a correct diet and an adequate approach to physical activity, children with DS could achieve results that are substantially like those of non-DS children.

Automated summary

This study investigated the adherence of children with Down syndrome (DS) to the Mediterranean diet, their level of physical activity, and lipid profile. The results showed that higher scores on the diet and physical activity questionnaires were associated with a reduced likelihood of being overweight or obese. Additionally, higher levels of physical activity were inversely related to the probability of finding abnormal HDL values in plasma.