Insights from Mercyland’s licensed nutritionist, Ms. Regina Gill, on building healthy habits through balanced diets and education.
In recognition of National Nutrition Month, we are highlighting the important role nutrition plays in the health and well-being of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Nutrition matters for everyone, but people with IDD may face unique health challenges that make good dietary support especially important. At Mercyland Healthcare, Ms. Gill works closely with our persons and their families to create personalized nutrition plans that promote better health, prevent complications, and improve quality of life.
Starting with individual needs
For people with IDD, nutrition success often depends on the support system around them. Caregivers, staff, and family members play a major role in grocery shopping, cooking, and meal planning. That is why Ms. Gill focuses on educating the whole care team. “Education is key,” she notes, because the plan needs to be understood by the people who will help put it into practice every day.
Every nutrition plan begins with a careful assessment. “When working with my person, I assess them to see whether they are overweight, underweight, or have any chronic diseases that need to be managed through diet,” she explains. This evaluation helps decide what kind of therapeutic diet may be needed. Some people, for example, may need diets that help manage diabetes, heart health, or weight. Once Ms. Gill understands the person’s needs, she designs a plan built around their health conditions and personal goals.
Challenges in putting a plan into practice
Even with a clear plan, following it can be difficult. One common challenge is that the person who shops or cooks may not always follow the recommended guidelines. They might buy different foods than the ones in the plan.
Another factor Ms. Gill points to is cultural habits around food. Sometimes caregivers prepare meals the way they have always cooked them, simply because it is familiar and comforting. These traditions are meaningful, but they may not always match the dietary needs of the person being supported.
Building balanced, sustainable diets
Most of the plans Ms. Gill recommends focus on whole, balanced foods. They emphasize:
- Lean proteins
- Vegetables and fruits
- Whole grains
- Milk and dairy products
- Hydration with low-sugar drinks
These foods provide the nutrients that support energy, physical health, and long-term wellness. The plan does not stop at recommendations. Ms. Gill also provides education for both the person she supports and the staff, so everyone understands how to build the plan into daily routines.
Moving toward healthier habits
Meeting these challenges takes patience, education, and teamwork. By working closely with families and support staff, a nutritionist can adapt recommendations in ways that respect cultural preferences while still supporting healthier choices.
For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, nutrition is not just about food. It is about support, education, and consistency. With the right guidance and teamwork, balanced nutrition can become a powerful tool for better health, greater independence, and a fuller quality of life. Call us: 202-525-1563. Visit: mercylandhi.com
