Nutritional supplementation in Down syndrome: theoretical considerations and current status

Complementary and alternative therapies for Down syndrome

“…Of 16 studies comparing serum levels of zinc in individuals with and without DS, 13 showed significantly reduced levels in individuals with DS and 3 found no difference [Ani et al, 2000]. Ani et al [2000] reviewed seven uncontrolled open zinc trials with preand posttreatment measurements in a total of 168 individuals with DS aged 2 to 22 years. Although they all reported mainly laboratory evidence for beneficial effects on the immune function, Ani and coworkers stated that the data were difficult to interpret.…”

“…The increased activity of SOD in various tissues in DS [Sinet et al, 1975;Crosti et al, 1976;Feaster et al, 1977;Bjorksten et al, 1984;Brooksbank and Balazs, 1984;Kedziora et al, 1986;Kedziora et al, 1990;Tanabe et al, 1994;De-la-Torre et al, 1996] is thought to be due to a gene dosage effect. The increased hydrogen peroxide produced by the increase in SOD may then react with transition metals like iron to form the hydroxyl radical that can initiate lipid peroxidation resulting in damage to cell membranes [Ani et al, 2000]. The hydrogen peroxide is metabolized to water by glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px, an endogenous antioxidant) or catalase [Halliwell and Gutteridge, 1989].…”

“…There are few randomized, controlled trials. Most lack controls, have small sample sizes, have too short a duration, and target older individuals [Ani et al, 2000]. To detect a six-point (0.5 standard deviation) IQ difference, 170 individuals with DS with 85 in each arm of a clinical trial are needed [Kirkwood, 1988].…”

Supplementation with antioxidants and folinic acid for children with Down’s syndrome: randomised controlled trial

“…[12][13][14] Four controlled trials of various doses and combinations of antioxidant vitamin and mineral supplementation given for three to eight months were identified in children and young people with Down's syndrome. [15][16][17][18][19] The trials included a total of 150 participants aged between 6 months and 17 years. Younger children are thought to be more likely to benefit from nutritional interventions, but only one study, a crossover trial with 19 participants, included children under 5 years of age.…”

Nutrition and neurology

“…But perhaps it reminds us that our clients -the families of children with disabilitiesfeel that nutrition may be a solution to some of their child's problems. Ani et al 5 review the theoretical basis for such a belief but conclude that there is no consistent or rigorous proof that any form of nutritional supplement improves the outcome in Down syndrome. However, they rightly urge the need for such a study to be undertaken.…”