Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Adults with Down syndrome are at increased risk of obesity and cardiometabolic disease; however, evidence regarding effective lifestyle interventions remains limited. This study evaluated the outcomes of a multidisciplinary lifestyle program incorporating nutritional therapy in adults with Down syndrome attending a specialized outpatient clinic. METHODS: ) who participated in a multidisciplinary lifestyle intervention between October 2016 and October 2017. The program combined individual nutritional counselling, nutrition and cooking workshops, supervised physical activity, psychological support, and caregiver involvement. Anthropometric measurements, body composition, dietary intake, and biochemical parameters were assessed at baseline, 5 months and 10 months. RESULTS: . Mean body weight decreased from 81.5 to 78.9 kg, and 3 participants achieved clinically relevant weight loss (> 5% of baseline body weight). No statistically significant changes were observed in anthropometric, body composition, dietary, or biochemical outcomes. Descriptive analyses indicated reductions in fat mass and visceral fat among participants achieving weight loss. Participants also reported improvements in nutritional awareness, healthier food choices, and meal preparation practices. CONCLUSION: This retrospective study demonstrates the feasibility of implementing a multidisciplinary lifestyle intervention incorporating nutritional therapy for adults with Down syndrome and obesity in a specialized outpatient setting. The findings provide preliminary clinical experience regarding the provision of a tailored interventional approach in this population. Larger prospective studies are required to further evaluate multidisciplinary lifestyle programs and their long-term relevance for metabolic health and quality of life.
Source: Wiener klinische Wochenschrift
Authors: Barbara Bauer, Alexandra Thajer
Institution: Medical University of Vienna
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,690
OpenAlex ID: W7212061914