Disabilities can range from visual and/or hearing-impairment to musculoskeletal impairments. Disabled kids have the same basic nourishment and activity needs that other non-disabled kids do, that of maintaining efficient body functioning. A diet for disabled kids can help implement life-long habits that encourage a fulfilling, healthy lifestyle. Depending upon the disability, some kids may need less calories due to exerting fewer calories. Being a healthy role model encourages diet and activity compliance. Check with your doctor before embarking on any new diet.
Well-Balanced
Eating a well-balanced diet full of healthy foods is emphasized to maintain proper health levels. A well-balanced diet involves eating different foods from each of the food groups, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. A healthy diet consists of eating more foods from the grains, vegetables, dairy and fruits category than other groups. Smaller amounts of protein-source foods including meats and beans are needed. Heart-healthy oils complete a well-rounded diet, with the least amounts needed to satisfy the meal plan.
Physical Activity
Physical activity plays a role in any healthy diet for disabled kids, according to the U.S. Disabled World. Disabled kids, including wheelchair-bound, can reap the same health benefits from a regular exercise program as anyone else. Benefits include increasing longevity, mobility, independence and strength. Other benefits include weight management, pain reduction and mood enhancement. A well-rounded workout will include three types of exercise: aerobic or endurance for cardiovascular health, anaerobic to strengthen and flexibility to increase mobility.
Protein
Protein is needed to build and maintain muscles, skin, tissue and bones throughout your body. Every body cell contains protein. Protein is required for proper absorption and utilization of calcium, a mineral that helps make your bones stronger and more compact. Dietary sources include both animal and plant-based foods. Animal sources include red meat, poultry, fish and dairy foods. Plant-based dietary sources include grains, seeds, nuts, vegetables and legumes. Combining plant sources, like rice and beans, can provide enough protein to improve bone health.
Calcium
Calcium is the most important mineral needed for bone health, according to Disabled World. Most children and teenagers lack adequate amounts of calcium in their diet, according to the National Institutes of Health. For children 11 to 15 years old who are in the critical bone growth stage, the recommended calcium intake level is 1,300 mg daily. Kids in this age range need twice as much calcium than those younger than nine. Taking calcium supplements, consuming dairy foods or eating calcium-rich foods including dark, leafy greens.
Caution
Not all diets for disabled kids will be the same. Depending upon individual health situations, calorie intake may vary. Nutritional requirements that promote developing healthy eating habits may hinder medical conditions or medical treatments. Food allergies may hinder consumption of certain foods. Medications may interfere with certain foods. Certain types of physical activity may be incompatible for certain disabled kids.
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