Improving Health Equity for Youth with Autism or Intellectual Disability Through Integrated Nutrition Care

Description

As nutrition professionals in areas of body weight regulation, psychiatry, and neuropsychiatry, we commonly evaluate and treat complex nutrition challenges among youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and/or intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), including patients with comorbid psychiatric diagnoses. Our presentation addresses the risks of malnutrition, obesity, and micronutrient deficiencies within a framework of common eating behaviors, feeding challenges, and specialty diets utilized in youth with ASD/IDD. With this in mind, we describe the formulation of inpatient and outpatient nutrition treatment strategies for youth with ASD/IDD across the BMI spectrum and include case studies to demonstrate interdisciplinary implementation. Dietitians will learn how to overcome behavioral and systemic barriers to ensure equitable health outcomes for this patient population during the current pediatric mental health crisis.

Learning Objectives

Describe common and complex nutrition challenges among youth with autism spectrum disorder and/or intellectual and developmental disabilities in order to develop appropriate treatment strategies

Systematically integrate identification of micronutrient deficiencies within a framework of common eating behaviors in youth with ASD/IDD in order to optimize nutrition status

Formulate inpatient and outpatient nutrition treatment strategies for youth with ASD/IDD across the BMI spectrum in order to improve health outcomes

Performance Indicators

1.7 Applies cultural competence and consideration for social determinants of health to show respect for individuals, groups and populations

8.2 Applies current knowledge and skill in the management of a variety of diseases and clinical conditions

10.3 Establishes and implements evidence-based nutrition interventions to address PES statements and client/patient goals

Speaker(s)

Hannah Altman-Kurosaki

Clinical Dietitian Professional

Children’s Hospital Colorado

Jaime Moore

Assistant Professor

University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

Moderator

Helen Seagle

Clinical Nutrition Manager

Children's Hospital Colorado

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