Because of their inability to ambulate, children with cerebral palsy should be evaluated for which nutrients?

Because of their inability to ambulate, children with cerebral palsy should be evaluated for which nutrients?

• A. Calcium and vitamin D.
• B. Iron and zinc.
• C. Fat-soluble vitamins.
• D. Sodium and potassium.

Answer: (A)

Limited ability to walk in children with cerebral palsy reduces the mechanical loading on growing bones, which can lead to lower bone mineral density and a higher risk of fractures. Calcium provides the mineral component of bone, and vitamin D is essential for its absorption and proper bone formation. Ensuring adequate intake of both supports bone health in these kids, reducing fracture risk as they grow. Iron and zinc support growth and blood health but don’t directly address bone density, sodium and potassium are electrolytes, and labeling all fat-soluble vitamins is too broad a category—vitamin D specifically ties to bone health. So focusing on calcium and vitamin D is the most relevant evaluation for these patients.

Limited ability to walk in children with cerebral palsy reduces the mechanical loading on growing bones, which can lead to lower bone mineral density and a higher risk of fractures. Calcium provides the mineral component of bone, and vitamin D is essential for its absorption and proper bone formation. Ensuring adequate intake of both supports bone health in these kids, reducing fracture risk as they grow. Iron and zinc support growth and blood health but don’t directly address bone density, sodium and potassium are electrolytes, and labeling all fat-soluble vitamins is too broad a category—vitamin D specifically ties to bone health. So focusing on calcium and vitamin D is the most relevant evaluation for these patients.