Joan E. Guthrie Medlen, R.D., L.D., a registered and licensed dietitian who focuses on health promotion for people with disabilities, has written The Down Syndrome Nutrition Handbook: A Guide to Promoting Healthy Lifestyles to assist parents of children with Down syndrome in helping their children improve nutrition and manage weight.

The chapter on fitness and activity includes an overview of types of exercise, promoting healthy lifestyles, activities at home and at school, as well as after-school activities and community programs. A helpful appendix focuses on activity suggestions for different age groups, such as exercise, sports, events, crafts, chores, etc. Other chapters cover:

Breast and bottle feeding
Basic nutrition and physiology
Celiac disease
Diabetes
Alternative therapies
Food and school
Weight management
Cooking and menu planning
Education activities

With this handbook, parents, dietitians, and therapists will understand the connection between Down syndrome, nutrition, and health promotion, and be in a better position to guide children toward a healthier future.

To order, call 800-843-7323, or consult the web site at http://www.ncpad.org/672/2892/2002-12-01