Wheelchair users typically need 15-25% fewer calories than ambulatory individuals, but protein needs remain high. Bone density and vitamin D are critical focus areas.
Tap to reveal
Key nutritional priorities
Tap each priority tailored for wheelchair users.
Tap each tile to reveal the detail.
Fact
Bone density needs special attention
Without weight-bearing impact, bone-mineral density in the legs and pelvis drops measurably within 6-12 months of injury — and continues falling for years. The defence: high calcium + Vit D + Vit K2, weight-bearing exercise where possible (standing frames, FES cycling), and DEXA scans every 2 years to monitor. Some specialists prescribe bisphosphonates for high-risk users — discuss if hip/spine T-score drops below -2.5.
DEXA / 2ymonitoring cadence
Tap to reveal
Anti-pressure-injury nutrition
Wheelchair users face higher pressure-injury risk; nutrition is a major modifier. Tap each.
Tap each tile to reveal the detail.
Tap to reveal
Bowel + gut health protocol
Bowel regularity is harder for many wheelchair users. Tap each lever.
Tap each tile to reveal the detail.
Takeaway
Key Takeaway
High protein, high vitamin D, adequate calcium, and careful calorie management. These four pillars are non-negotiable for wheelchair user longevity.
Track your progress
Read the cards above, then mark this lesson complete to track your progress.