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  1. Watch your calorie intake: Your need for calories will vary depeNutrition-Pro-Tip-pic.jpgnding on your BMI (Body Mass Index) and the type of disability you have. Remember the most people with a mobility impairment burn fewer calories per day compared to a non-disabled person that is of the same age, height, and weight.
  2. Consume more calcium: People who cannot bear weight are at high risk for osteoporosis. Calcium and vitamin D3 improve circulation and help maintain bone mass. Dairy, spinach, kale, okra, collards, soybeans, and some fish are high in calcium. Foods high in vitamin D are tuna, salmon, dairy, beef liver, cheese, and egg yolks.
  3. Protein helps prevent skin breakdown: Having a diet high in protein can help keep your skin healthy and aid in healing an existing wound. There are many Protein calculators online to help you find your ideal protein intake. If you have an existing would, your doctor may recommend significantly increasing your protein intake.  
  4. Drink lots of water: Drinking lots of water is for people with disabilities is crucial for several reasons. People who must intermittently catheterize themselves or have an indwelling catheter are at high risk for urinary tract infections. Drinking soda, juices, caffeine, and alcohol all increase the risk for UTIs and weight gain. Water keeps the kidneys and bladder healthy by flushing out bacteria. Staying well-hydrated also aids digestion.
Karen Roy, Numotion Brand Ambassador

Author

Karen Roy, Numotion Brand Ambassador

Karen Roy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience. Most of that time was spent as a Case Manager for an in-patient rehabilitation hospital. She was the victim of an armed robbery in 1987 and has been a wheelchair user for the last 31 years. She had 3 kids after her injury. Caroline, Austin and Joseph are all in currently attending college. As Ms. Wheelchair America 2019 Karen’s platform was “Stand for Life”. Her platform is about the use of standing technology and other devices that improve the health and well-being of people with disabilities.