| Abstrakt: |
29 non-institutionalized children under 6 years of age with cerebral palsy underwent nutritional assessment. Nutrient intake was estimated by both 3 day dietary records and 24 hour recall. Anthropomorphic measurements included height/length, weight, mid-arm circumference, and skinfold thickness (S.T.) of triceps and subscapular areas. 57% of children had caloric intakes <80% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for age; 40% had caloric intakes <80% of RDA for height age. Protein intake was generally adequate. 13% of children had protein intakes <80% of RDA for age. 9% had protein intakes <80% of RDA for height age. A significant number of children had subnormal height, weight, midarm circumference, and S.T.Mean values for hemoglobin and for serum iron, total protein, albumin, calcium, phosphorus, cholesterol, creatinine, and alkaline phosphatase were normal. Poor growth and undernutrition are common in children with cerebral palsy. Poor caloric intake may be a contributing factor. |
