This single-arm, quasi-experimental pre-post study evaluated an 8-week online nutrition education program for individuals with Down syndrome and their caregivers in Ataşehir, Istanbul, Türkiye. Thirty-one individuals with Down syndrome and 31 caregivers (n=62) completed the program. Dietary behaviors, 3-day dietary intake, anthropometric measurements, and caregiver nutrition literacy were assessed before and after the intervention.

Participants were recruited through the Turkey Down Syndrome Association (Ataşehir, Istanbul). Eligible participants were individuals with Down syndrome who could express preferences and caregivers with sufficient digital skills to complete online procedures. Although 39 individuals initially agreed to participate, the study was completed with 31 individuals with Down syndrome and their caregivers (n=62) after exclusions for eligibility and continuity.

Data were collected using a Down Syndrome Individual Information Form, the Nutrition Behavior Scale, a 3-day dietary intake record (including one weekend day; analyzed in BeBİS), a Caregiver Information Form, the Adult Nutrition Literacy Assessment Tool, and Down syndrome-specific growth charts (Zemel et al., 2015; 2-20 years).

The intervention consisted of an 8-week basic nutrition education program delivered via live video conferencing. Individuals with Down syndrome received weekly sessions of approximately 15 minutes focusing on food groups, healthy eating principles, reducing sugary/packaged foods, increasing daily physical activity, and adequate water intake. Caregivers received four modules of approximately 30 minutes covering healthy eating principles, food groups, physical activity, common comorbidities and metabolic changes in Down syndrome, and key considerations in nutrition therapy. Illustrated and graphical slide materials were shared during sessions and sent to caregivers afterward via online messaging.

Inclusion Criteria:

Volunteered to participate and provided informed consent (caregiver/parent consent).

Individuals with Down syndrome who were able to express their preferences. Caregivers/parents with sufficient digital knowledge and skills to participate in online procedures and training sessions.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Individuals with Down syndrome and/or caregivers/parents who did not have sufficient digital knowledge and skills to participate in online procedures.

Individuals with Down syndrome and/or caregivers/parents who did not maintain continuity in the study (e.g., did not complete the intervention and/or pre-/post-assessments).