Dietary supplement practices in children with inherited metabolic disorders receiving protein-restricted diets
Clinical Nutrition ESPEN, vol.75, 2026 (ESCI, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 75
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2026.105104
- Journal Name: Clinical Nutrition ESPEN
- Journal Indexes: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, EMBASE, MEDLINE
- Keywords: Dietary supplements, Inherited metabolic disorders, Natural protein-restricted diet, Parental attitudes, Vitamin–mineral supplements
- Dokuz Eylül University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Background Children with inherited metabolic disorders (IMDs) receiving natural protein-restricted diets may be at risk of micronutrient imbalance. However, data on dietary supplement practices in this population are limited. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of current dietary supplement use and to evaluate supplement types and factors associated with their use. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 50 children with IMDs receiving natural protein-restricted diets were included. Parents completed a structured 50-item questionnaire during face-to-face interviews. Information on dietary supplement use, reasons for supplementation, and clinical and sociodemographic characteristics was collected. Results The prevalence of current dietary supplement use was 36.0% (95% CI, 22.9–50.8). Vitamin–mineral preparations were the most commonly used supplements. Current supplement use was more frequent among children with phenylketonuria who had high dietary adherence than among those with low dietary adherence (50.0% vs. 13.3%, p = 0.034). No significant associations were found with diagnosis, growth status, or sociodemographic characteristics. When dietary supplements were used, they were most often recommended by pediatric metabolic specialists according to individual clinical needs. Conclusions Approximately one-third of children with IMDs receiving natural protein-restricted diets were current dietary supplement users. These findings support individualized nutritional assessment and the use of dietary supplements based on clinical evaluation rather than routine supplementation.