A Feast of Fun! Drag Roast - Healthy Eating Option! A pilot study

Background

Adults with learning disabilities are at increased risk of malnutrition and chronic disease, while limited tailored support, inaccessible health advice and sensory sensitivities can make healthy eating difficult. This pilot study examined dietary intake, patterns, preferences and barriers to healthy eating among adults with learning disabilities attending inclusive workshops, to inform strategies to improve dietary health.

Methods

Participants were adults aged 18+ with a diagnosed learning disability and/or autism, living in a range of settings, who attended Fflamingo Community Interest Company’s co-produced House of Deviant workshops. Consent was obtained using Easy Read materials with staff support. Dietary intake was assessed using a three-day food diary with meal photographs, followed by a supported dietary recall interview (n = 7). A focus group (n = 9) explored views on healthy eating, barriers and strategies to improve diet.

Results

Carbohydrate and protein intake met UK recommendations, but total fat (36%) and saturated fat (13%) contributions to energy intake were high. Fibre (10 g/day), fruit and vegetable intake (1.5 portions/day), and micronutrients - vitamins D and A, selenium, potassium, magnesium, zinc, iodine and calcium - were low. Participants had limited water intake. Focus group findings showed that healthy eating was valued, but barriers included cost, time, convenience, taste and limited support. Participants wanted accessible nutrition education for themselves, families and carers, with help for meal planning, shopping and cooking.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that improving diet in adults with learning disabilities may require co-produced, accessible nutrition support that is practical and tailored to everyday needs. Co-designed resources may be a viable way to deliver this support. Future research should also involve support staff, families and carers to assess their understanding and confidence in supporting healthy eating.

Key messages

• This work highlights key nutritional gaps among adults with learning disabilities and shows the need for accessible, tailored support to improve dietary wellbeing.

• Findings can support the development of co-produced resources to help adults with learning disabilities, families, and carers make healthier food choices in everyday life.