The impact of diet on cardiovascular disease risk in individuals with spinal cord injury

Abstract

The prevalence of chronic disease has increased as individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCIs) experience longer survival. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of their morbidity and mortality. A necessary component of any CVD prevention is a healthy diet. This can be especially challenging for persons experiencing body composition changes, low resting metabolic rates, functional impairments, and barriers to healthy living; together these comprise an obesogenic environment. This monograph will discuss critical features of a healthy diet and dietary interventions providing risk reduction after SCI. If well designed and appropriately supported, diet can make a significant contribution to CVD prevention. © 2009 Thomas Land Publishers, Inc.