Nutritional status and dietary intake of children and adolescents with cerebral palsy

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the association between energy and nutrient intake, nutritional status and motor compromise in children and adolescents aged 2–19 years with cerebral palsy (CP) attending rehabilitation centers in the Province of Cordoba, Argentina. Methods: Cross sectional study. Data from 105 children and adolescents of both sexes aged 2–19 years with CP (67 boys [63.8% 53.84–72.95]) were collected. Motor compromise was assessed with GMFCS. 24 h records were collected and analyzed. The results were compared with the recommended by FAO/UNU/WHO for age and sex. Normal data were presented with mean and SD, while those of non-normal distribution were described as medians with their ranges. The relationship between variables was analyzed using Fisher, t, or Mann–Whitney tests, with a p value < 0.05. Results: The mean age was 11 years 6 months (SD 4 years 4 months). Fifteen [14.3% 8.23–22.48] children failed to meet at least 80% of the recommended energy. Children with GMFCS IV-V consume fewer daily calories and carbohydrate calories than their peers (I-III). The median protein intake of children GMFCS IV-V group was significantly lower than that of their peers (47.37 g vs. 71.56 g, p = 0.0057). Those who did not reach 80% of the recommended energy intake had lower intakes of macro and micronutrients. Conclusion: The greater the motor compromise in children with CP, the greater the compromise in the adequacy of nutrient intake. The intake of macro and micronutrients was different according to whether or not they were able to cover at least 80% of the recommended energy for their age.