Nutrition for Wheelchair Users
Wheelchair users generally have different mobility and calorie requirements than able-bodied individuals due to physiological changes following injury or disability, such as muscle atrophy and reduced energy expenditure.
Nutritional Support
Nutritional support involves using a balanced diet and, when necessary, specific supplements to prevent malnutrition, correct deficiencies, and manage health conditions. For beginners, understanding this concept often starts with the “Big Five” essential nutrients: protein, fiber, vitamin D, calcium, and fluids.
Nutrition and Vitamin D
In Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) care, Vitamin D is critical for maintaining bone health and mitigating the side effects of long-term steroid use, which is a gold standard treatment for the condition. Because DMD involves progressive muscular weakness and reduced mobility, patients are at a significantly higher risk for osteoporosis and fragility fractures.