Comparison of energy and nutrient intakes of individuals with disabilities according to reference values: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Aim: It was aimed to evaluate the daily intake of energy and nutrients to determine the nutritional status of individuals with disabilities. Subjects and Method: The study was carried out under the Disability Support Program in 8 special education, practice and rehabilitation centres in the city centre of [removed for blind peer review] as a cross-sectional study. The demographic characteristics and daily energy and nutrient intake levels of individuals with disabilities were questioned. Daily energy and nutrient intake levels were compared with recommendations. Results: It has been determined that disabled individuals in all age groups diverged negatively from the reference energy value and the rate of energy of carbohydrates was low, the rate of fat was high. Vitamin A was low in males in the 14-18 age group and high in females in the 19-30 age group. Vitamin B1 in 10-30 years old, folic acid was in ≥10 years of age were low in both genders. Calcium and magnesium were low in both genders in all age groups. Conclusion: It has been determined that disabled people were inadequate and unbalanced, and it was thought that periodic evaluation of nutritional status will play an important role in improving their health.