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Diet support for Down syndrome

Helping people with Down syndrome eat well, stay healthy and build lifelong habits.

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As a nutritionist and parent of a child with Down syndrome, I combine professional expertise with lived experience to provide practical support that works in the real world.

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Is this you? 

When it comes to food choices for your person with Down Syndrome are you:​

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✓ Concerned about weight gain or obesity

✓ Struggling with portion sizes or overeating

✓ Looking for healthier alternatives to processed foods

✓ Supporting a young adult preparing for independent living

✓ Wanting practical nutrition advice that actually works

✓ Confused by conflicting nutrition information

✓ Looking for support tailored specifically to Down syndrome

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Whether you're supporting a child, teenager or adult with Down syndrome, nutrition can play an important role in supporting health, independence and quality of life.

Why is nutrition different for people with Down Syndrome.

People with Down syndrome often face unique health and nutritional challenges.

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Weight gain, appetite regulation, food preferences, constipation, thyroid issues, metabolic health and future cognitive health are often important considerations for families.

 

Research in this area is still developing, which can leave families unsure about the best approach.

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My aim is to help families cut through the confusion and focus on practical strategies that can be implemented in everyday life.

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How I Can Help.

Create Practical Healthy Eating Habits

Simple, realistic changes that support healthier eating patterns. 

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Support Weight & Metabolic Health

Guidance around portion sizes, appetite regulation, food choices and healthy body composition. The current group programme is particularly suitable for people who struggle with weight, portion control, junk food or excessive intake of refined carbohydrates.

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Build Skills For Greater Independence

Practical education to help young people and adults make healthier food choices, particularly when preparing to live more independently.

How I Can Help.

There is no right diet for Down syndrome but there are a few things worth knowing. 

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My approach focuses on helping individuals and families know what a healthy plate should look like that supports overall health and that may be of extra benefit for people with Down Syndrome.

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Key areas often include:

  • Reducing added sugars

  • Increasing vegetable intake

  • Supporting adequate protein intake

  • Improving food quality

  • Encouraging nutrient-dense meals

  • Supporting healthy habits for life

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These principles form the foundation of much of my work in this area.

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Ways we can work together. 

Therapist and Client

Individual 1:1 Consultations

Personalised nutrition support tailored to your health, lifestyle and goals.

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10-weeks to Better Health Program

A structured programme combining personalised nutrition advice, accountability and habit change support.

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6-Week Down Syndrome Nutrition Programme

A highly visual online group program to teach people with DS practical healthy eating skills.

The programme runs over six weeks with four online sessions, practical activities and easy-to-follow resources.​

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Learn more

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Education & advocacy. 

I regularly present on nutrition and Down syndrome, including presentations for Down Syndrome NSW and at the World Down Syndrome Congress.

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My goal is to help families understand what current research can and cannot tell us, while focusing on practical strategies that make a genuine difference in everyday life.

What clients say.

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"A quick message to share some good news. The results of Michael's blood tests are in ! His insulin level has reduced from 11 to 6....Thank you for all your advice."

Paulina, mother of 17 year old with Down Syndrome

"Thank you so much for changing our lives!! My son is thriving!! The breakfast ideas you sent me is perfect!!! Just what I was after!! Thank you." Parent of 21 year old with Down Syndrome 

Anonymous, Mum of 21 year old with Down Syndrome

Frequently asked questions.

Is there a specific diet for Down syndrome? There is no single diet that is right for everyone with Down syndrome. Nutrition advice should be tailored to the individual and their specific health needs.

Can you help with weight management? Many families seek support around weight management, portion control and establishing healthier eating habits.

Is support available online? Yes. Consultations and programmes can be delivered online, making support accessible regardless of location.

Is the 6-week programme suitable for adults with Down Syndrome? Yes. The programme is designed for people with Down syndrome older than around 15 years, and is particularly valuable for young adults developing greater independence.

Do parents attend sessions? This depends on the individual and the type of support being provided. Parent and carer involvement is often an important part of achieving successful outcomes.

Why this matters to me.

My interest in nutrition and Down syndrome began with my youngest son, Michael, who has Down syndrome. Over the years, I've spent countless hours reading, researching and speaking with families about the role nutrition may play in supporting health and wellbeing.

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People with Down syndrome often face lifelong challenges related to immune function, metabolic health and aging. In a world where ultra-processed foods now make up a large part of many people's diets, I believe nutrition matters more than ever.

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Good nutrition won't solve every challenge, but it is one of the few things we have the opportunity to influence every single day. Eating well can help support immune health, reduce the burden of chronic illness, maintain mobility and independence, and help people with Down syndrome stay active, engaged and participating fully in life.

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Perhaps most importantly, we know that people with Down syndrome face a significantly increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease as they age. While there are no guarantees, supporting health through good nutrition, physical activity and healthy lifestyle habits hopefully gives us an opportunity to support brain health from an early age.

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For me, this isn't just professional. It's personal. Every family wants their loved one with Down syndrome to live a healthy, happy and fulfilling life. I believe nutrition is one of the most powerful tools we have to help make that happen.

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