A multisite community-based, case-control study to examine the nutrient intake adequacy of young children with and without developmental delays and other disorders: findings from the Study to Explore Early Development (SEED).

BACKGROUND

Frequent concerns are expressed about the diets of children with developmental disabilities. However, previous reports have been based on small samples.

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed to assess nutrient intakes of young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), children with other developmental delays and disorders (DD), and general population controls (POP) and to examine nutrient intakes for adequacy.

METHODS

The Study to Explore Early Development is a multisite community-based, case-control study designed to understand ASD better. Parents of children (aged 2-5 y) completed 3-d diet diaries to capture all foods and beverages (excluding dietary supplements) consumed by their children. Foods from diaries were analyzed for macronutrient and micronutrient content. Analysis of variances examined group differences in nutrient intakes (criterion of P < 0.001). Chi-square tests of independence examined differences in the proportion of children in each group: 1) not meeting the estimated average requirements (EAR) and 2) exceeding the tolerable upper intake level (UL) for each nutrient, with the examination of standardized residuals (= ±1.96) to ascertain differences among groups.

RESULTS

Diet records (n = 1227) were obtained for children in the 3 groups: ASD (n = 338), DD (n = 412), and POP (n = 477). Few clinically important group differences were noted in children's nutrient intakes and most met EARs although few had intakes above the ULs. Notable exceptions included: 1) >10% of children below the EAR for vitamins A and E, pantothenate, calcium, and fiber; 2) >10% above the ULs for niacin, folate, manganese, and added sugars; 3) >80% were above the UL for added sugars and >95% did not meet EAR for fiber.

CONCLUSIONS

Reassurance can be taken from this study that young children's nutrient intakes from food, including those with developmental disabilities, meet most recommendations for nutrient adequacy. Further study of food intake patterns and diet quality is warranted, with concurrent clinical indicators of nutrient status.