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21/03/2025 - Press release

The Importance of Nutrition in People with Down Syndrome

World Down Syndrome Day

Coinciding with the celebration of World Down Syndrome Day, the results of the GODS21 study, a pioneering initiative on the relationship between obesity and people with Down syndrome, have been presented. A healthy diet is associated with higher IQ scores in this population.

The GODS21 study (Gene Overdosage and Comorbidities During the Early Lifetime in Down Syndrome) has revealed the importance of nutrition in cognitive development for individuals with Down syndrome. These findings were presented on March 21, marking World Down Syndrome Day. The study has analyzed the link between obesity and Down syndrome, highlighting the need to consider nutrition as a key factor in improving health.

This international research project, involving twelve centers across six European countries, has studied the genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors affecting the health of people with Down syndrome, with a special focus on obesity. The Hospital del Mar Research Institute and the Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG) have played a decisive role in conducting clinical studies and disseminating the findings.

The study's conclusions emphasize the need for a holistic approach to nutrition, involving both families and healthcare professionals. The results indicate that a higher intake of high-quality proteins, a diet rich in vegetables and whole grains, and a healthy lipid profile are linked to better IQ scores. A balanced diet and regular physical activity are fundamental in preventing comorbidities such as obesity, while also enhancing cognitive abilities. Additionally, the study highlights a strong correlation between the dietary habits of individuals with Down syndrome and those of their families, particularly their mothers, underscoring the importance of a family-centered approach to health improvement.

From left to right: Rafael de la Torre, Mara Dierssen and José María Batalla.

In this regard, Dr. Mara Dierssen, leader of the Cellular and Systems Neurobiology Group at the CRG's Systems Biology Program, notes that "individuals with Down syndrome have a genetic predisposition to prefer sweet or high-fat foods, as evidenced by studies in animal models, possibly linked to specific genes." Similarly, Dr. Rafael de la Torre, coordinator of the Integrated Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Group at the Hospital del Mar Research Institute and principal investigator of the ICOD project (Improving Cognition in Down Syndrome), states that "the study results offer new perspectives on the complex factors contributing to overweight and obesity in individuals with Down syndrome, suggesting that a combination of dietary and lifestyle interventions can be beneficial not only for preventing obesity but also for enhancing cognitive performance."

The presentation of the study results has included Down Catalunya and Down España, as well as La Casa de Carlota, the world's first design studio that includes creative professionals with intellectual disabilities, and Bimbo. The event will be accompanied by workshops for people with Down syndrome and their families, aimed at sharing the study's key findings.

Down Syndrome Worldwide

It is estimated that the global incidence of Down syndrome is between 1 in 1,000 and 1 in 1,100 live births. People with Down syndrome may experience various medical conditions, which place them at a higher risk of developing obesity compared to individuals with other intellectual disabilities.

From left to right: Rafael de la Torre, Mara Dierssen and José María Batalla.

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