Double burden of malnutrition in persons with obesity

Risk factors for low muscle mass, malnutrition, and (probable-) sarcopenia in adults with or without a history of cancer in the UK Biobank

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Early identification of people at risk of cancer-related malnutrition, low muscle mass (LMM) and sarcopenia is crucial to mitigate the impact of adverse outcomes. This study investigated risk factors associated with LMM, malnutrition and (probable-) sarcopenia and whether these varied in people with or without a history of cancer.

METHODS

Participants in the UK Biobank, with or without a history of cancer, who completed the Oxford WebQ at the baseline assessment were included. LMM was estimated from fat-free mass derived from bioelectrical impedance analysis, and low muscle strength from handgrip strength, and used to identify probable or confirmed sarcopenia following the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 definition. The Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria were applied to determine malnutrition. Generalised linear models were used to estimate prevalence ratios (PR) for associations between risk factors (clinical, functional, nutritional) and study outcomes.

RESULTS

Overall, 50,592 adults with (n = 2,287, mean ± SD 59.7 ± 7.1 years) or without (n = 48,305, mean ± SD 55.8 ± 8.2 years) cancer were included. For all participants (PRs [cancer, without cancer]), slow walking pace (PR 1.85; 1.99), multimorbidity (PR 1.72; 1.51), inflammation (PR 2.91; 2.07), and low serum 25(OH)D (PR 1.85, 1.44) were associated with higher prevalence of LMM, while higher energy intake (PR 0.55; 0.49) was associated with lower prevalence. Slow walking pace (PR 1.54 [cancer], 1.51 [without cancer]) and higher protein intake (PR 0.18 [cancer]; 0.11 [without cancer]) were associated with increased or decreased prevalence of malnutrition, respectively regardless of cancer status. Multimorbidity was the only common factor associated with higher prevalence (PR 1.79 [cancer], 1.68 [without cancer]) of (probable-)sarcopenia in all participants.

CONCLUSION

Risk factors for LMM and malnutrition were similar in adults with and without cancer, although these varied between LMM and malnutrition. These findings have implications for the future of risk stratification, screening and assessment for these conditions and the development or modification of existing screening tools.

Body Weight and Composition Changes in Geriatric Rehabilitation Are Dependent on Sarcopenia and Malnutrition: RESORT

OBJECTIVES

Body weight and muscle mass loss following an acute hospitalization in older patients may be influenced by malnutrition and sarcopenia among other factors. This study aimed to assess the changes in body weight and composition from admission to discharge and the geriatric variables associated with the changes in geriatric rehabilitation inpatients.

DESIGN

RESORT is an observational, longitudinal cohort.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Geriatric rehabilitation inpatients admitted to geriatric rehabilitation wards at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia (N = 1006).

METHODS

Changes in body weight and body composition [fat mass (FM), appendicular lean mass (ALM)] from admission to discharge were analyzed using linear mixed models. Body mass index (BMI) categories, (risk of) malnutrition (Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition), sarcopenia (European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People), dependence in activities of daily living (ADL), multimorbidity, and cognitive impairment were tested as geriatric variables by which the changes in body weight and composition may differ.

RESULTS

A total of 1006 patients [median age: 83.2 (77.7-88.8) years, 58.5% female] were included. Body weight, FM (kg), and FM% decreased (0.30 kg, 0.43 kg, and 0.46%, respectively) and ALM (kg) and ALM% increased (0.17 kg and 0.33%, respectively) during geriatric rehabilitation. Body weight increased in patients with underweight; decreased in patients with normal/overweight, obesity, ADL dependence and in those without malnutrition and sarcopenia. ALM% and FM% decreased in patients with normal/overweight. ALM increased in patients without multimorbidity and in those with malnutrition and sarcopenia; ALM% increased in patients without multimorbidity and with sarcopenia.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

In geriatric rehabilitation, body weight increased in patients with underweight but decreased in patients with normal/overweight and obesity. ALM increased in patients with malnutrition and sarcopenia but not in patients without. This suggests the need for improved standard of care independent of patients' nutritional risk.

Key messages on obesity care from the 2023 ASPEN Physician Preconference Course: A narrative review

Obesity is a challenging chronic disease process that continues to affect a large percentage of the population at large. With the advent of new therapeutic options and interventions and a deeper scientific understanding of obesity as a complex illness, there is hope in curtailing this evolving pandemic. In this article, we present key medical information to engage and empower nutrition-focused providers to manage obesity and its nutrition complications. The topics summarized here were presented during the 2023 American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition Preconference Physician Course and include pathophysiology and hormonal regulation of obesity, multidisciplinary care planning and nutrition risk stratification of patients, and common approaches to treatment, including lifestyle modifications, antiobesity medications, and procedures from the perspective of the nutrition specialist.

Efficacy of multivitamin support following bariatric surgery in patients with obesity: a prospective observational study

PURPOSE

Bariatric surgery (BS), an effective treatment for severe obesity and its comorbidities, may result in micronutrient and vitamin deficiencies. This monocentric prospective observational study aimed at evaluating the efficacy of a specifically designed vitamin/mineral formula (Bariatrifast, BIOITALIA S.r.l., Italy) for preventing and treating micronutrient deficiencies in patients submitted to BS.

METHODS

Twenty patients with severe obesity (mean weight and BMI: 123.5 kg (range 88-174) and 43.3 kg/m2 (range 37-54) respectively) underwent BS (10 vertical sleeve gastrectomy VSG, 10 Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, RYGB). The mean age was 49.9 years (range 27-68). After a presurgical visit (V0), follow-up visits were performed at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery (V1-V4). Recorded data included weight, height and BMI. A complete blood count, measurement of ferritin, folic acid, vitamin B12, ionized calcium, 25 OH vitamin D, parathyroid hormone (PTH) were obtained. Following BS, patients started the daily oral multivitamin and mineral supplement.

RESULTS

All patients achieved a significant weight loss (mean - 34.7 ± 11.8 kg). No deficiencies of various vitamins/micronutrients were detected during the entire study period. The serum concentrations of vitamin B12, 25-OH Vitamin D and folic acid increased over the follow-up period compared with V0 (mean increase 243 ng/L, 23 µg /L, 8 µg/L, respectively). Compared to RYGB, patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy showed higher levels of 25-OH vitamin D at V2, V3 and V4 (all p < 0.05), and higher levels of Vitamin B12 and folic acid at V4 (p < 0.05 and p < 0.005, respectively). No adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSION

Following VSG or RYGB, Bariatrifast administration was associated with normal values of essential micronutrients, and it was well-tolerated without evidence of gastrointestinal side effects. Clinical Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov, identifiers NCT06152965.

Health professional attitudes and perceptions of prehabilitation and nutrition before haematopoietic cell transplantation

BACKGROUND

Nutritional prehabilitation may improve haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) outcomes, although little evidence exists. The present study aimed to understand healthcare professional (HCP) perceptions of prehabilitation and nutritional care pre-HCT in UK centres.

METHODS

An anonymous online survey (developed and refined via content experts and piloting) was administered via email to multidisciplinary HCPs in 39 UK adult centres, between July 2021 and June 2022. Data are presented as proportions of responses. Routine provision denotes that care was provided >70% of time.

RESULTS

Seventy-seven percent (n = 66) of HCPs, representing 61.5% (n = 24) of UK adult HCT centres, responded. All HCPs supported prehabilitation, proposing feasible implementation between induction chemotherapy (60.4%; n = 40) and first HCT clinic (83.3%; n = 55). Only 12.5% (n = 3) of centres had a dedicated prehabilitation service. Nutrition (87.9%; n = 58), emotional wellbeing (92.4%; n = 61) and exercise (81.8%; n = 54) were considered very important constituents. HCPs within half of the HCT centres (n = 12 centres) reported routine use of nutrition screening pre-HCT with a validated tool; 66.7% of HCPs (n = 36) reported using the malnutrition universal screening tool (MUST). Sixty-two percent (n = 41) of HCPs reported those at risk, received nutritional assessments, predominantly by dietitians (91.6%; n = 22) using the dietetic care process (58.3%; n = 14). Body mass index (BMI) was the most frequently reported body composition measure used by HCPs (70.2%, n = 33). Of 59 respondents, non-dietitians most routinely provided dietary advice pre-HCT (82.4%; n = 28 vs. 68%; n = 17, p = 0.2); including high-energy/protein/fat and neutropenic diet advice. Prophylactic enteral feeding pre-HCT was rare, indicated by low BMI and significant unintentional weight loss. Just under half (n = 25 of 59, 42.4%) HCPs reported exercise advice was given routinely pre-HCT.

CONCLUSIONS

Nutrition and prehabilitation pre-HCT are considered important and deliverable by HCPs, but current provision in UK centres is limited and inconsistent.

A survey of preoperative surgical nutrition practices, opinions, and barriers across Canada

Malnutrition is prevalent among surgical candidates and associated with adverse outcomes. Despite being potentially modifiable, malnutrition risk screening is not a standard preoperative practice. We conducted a cross-sectional survey to understand healthcare professionals' (HCPs) opinions and barriers regarding screening and treatment of malnutrition. HCPs working with adult surgical patients in Canada were invited to complete an online survey. Barriers to preoperative malnutrition screening were assessed using the Capability Opportunity Motivation-Behaviour model. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data were analyzed using summative content analysis. Of the 225 HCPs surveyed (n = 111 dietitians, n = 72 physicians, n = 42 allied HCPs), 96%-100% agreed that preoperative malnutrition is a modifiable risk factor associated with worse surgical outcomes and is a treatment priority. Yet, 65% (n = 142/220; dietitians: 88% vs. physicians: 40%) reported screening for malnutrition, which mostly occured in the postoperative period (n = 117) by dietitians (n = 94). Just 42% (48/113) of non-dietitian respondents referred positively screened patients to a dietitian for further assessment and treatment. The most prevalent barriers for malnutrition screening were related to opportunity, including availability of resources (57%, n = 121/212), time (40%, n = 84/212) and support from others (38%, n = 80/212). In conclusion, there is a gap between opinion and practice among surgical HCPs pertaining to malnutrition. Although HCPs agreed malnutrition is a surgical priority, the opportunity to screen for nutrition risk was a great barrier.

ESPEN Guidelines on Clinical nutrition in surgery - Special issues to be revisited

The ESPEN Guidelines on Clinical nutrition in Surgery from 2017 has been also available as practical guideline with algorithms since 2021 (www.espen.org). An update will be perfomed in the near future. This review focuses on recent data with regard to special issues and topics to be revisited in the guidelines: These are nutritional assessment, sarcopenic obesity, prehabilitation, oral/enteral immunonutrition, postoperative oral supplementation in hospital and after discharge.

Optimizing perinatal wellbeing in pregnancy with obesity: a clinical trial with a multi-component nutrition intervention for prevention of gestational diabetes and infant growth and neurodevelopment impairment

Pregnancy complicated by obesity represents an increased risk of unfavorable perinatal outcomes such as gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, preterm birth, and impaired fetal growth, among others. Obesity is associated with deficiencies of micronutrients, and pregnant women with obesity may have higher needs. The intrauterine environment in pregnancies complicated with obesity is characterized by inflammation and oxidative stress, where maternal nutrition and metabolic status have significant influence and are critical in maternal health and in fetal programming of health in the offspring later in life. Comprehensive lifestyle interventions, including intensive nutrition care, are associated with a lower risk of adverse perinatal outcomes. Routine supplementation during pregnancy includes folic acid and iron; other nutrient supplementation is recommended for high-risk women or women in low-middle income countries. This study is an open label randomized clinical trial of parallel groups (UMIN Clinical Trials Registry: UMIN000052753, https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000060194) to evaluate the effect of an intensive nutrition therapy and nutrient supplementation intervention (folic acid, iron, vitamin D, omega 3 fatty acids, myo-inositol and micronutrients) in pregnant women with obesity on the prevention of GDM, other perinatal outcomes, maternal and newborn nutritional status, and infant growth, adiposity, and neurodevelopment compared to usual care. Given the absence of established nutritional guidelines for managing obesity during pregnancy, there is a pressing need to develop and implement new nutritional programs to enhance perinatal outcomes.

The Yucatan minipig model: A new preclinical model of malnutrition in obese patients with acute or chronic diseases

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Malnutrition can develop in patients with obesity suffering from acute or chronic illness or after obesity surgery, promoting sarcopenic obesity. A better understanding of this pathophysiology and the development of new therapeutics for chronic diseases, that are often complicated with malnutrition and obesity, justify the development of new animal experimental models close to the human physiology. This study aims to characterize the effects of obesity and underfeeding on Yucatan obese minipigs, assessing its validity as a preclinical model for obesity-related malnutrition.

METHODS

Sixteen 30-month-old Yucatan minipigs were divided into two groups for 8 weeks: a standard diet group (ST, n = 5) and an obesogenic diet group (OB, n = 11). After 8 weeks, the OB group was further divided into two sub-groups: a standard diet group (OB-ST, n = 5) and a low-calorie/low-protein diet group (OB-LC/LP, n = 6) for 8 weeks. Body composition by CT-Scan and blood parameters were monitored, and trapezius muscle biopsies were collected to analyse signaling pathways involved in protein turnover and energy metabolism.

RESULTS

At W8, OB-ST animals exhibited significantly higher body weight (+37.7%, p = 0.03), muscle mass (+24.9%, p = 0.02), and visceral fat (+192.0%, p = 0.03) compared to ST. Trapezius cross sectional area (CSA) normalized to body weight was lower in OB-ST animals (-15.02%, p = 0.017). At W16, no significant changes were observed in protein turnover markers, although REDD1 increased in OB-ST (96.4%, p = 0.02). After 8 weeks of low-caloric/low protein diet, OB-LC/LP showed decreased body weight (-9.8%, p = 0.03), muscle mass (-6.5%, p = 0.03), and visceral fat (-41.5%, p = 0.03) compared to OB-ST animals. Trapezius fiber CSA significantly decreased in OB-LC/LP (-36.1%, p < 0.0001) and normalized to body weight (-25.4%, p < 0.0001), combined to higher ubiquitinated protein content (+38.3%, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Our data support that the Yucatan minipig model mimics nutritional and skeletal muscle phenotypes observed in obese patients, with or without protein-energy malnutrition. It also reproduces muscle atrophy observed in chronic diseases or post-obesity surgery, making it a promising preclinical model for obesity-related malnutrition.

Obesity-Resistant Mice on a High-Fat Diet Display a Distinct Phenotype Linked to Enhanced Lipid Metabolism

Individually, metabolic variations can significantly influence predisposition to obesity in the form of the obesity-prone (super-responders) and obesity-resistant (non-responders) phenotypes in response to modern calorie-dense diets. In this study, C57BL/6J mice (n = 76) were randomly assigned to either a low-fat diet (LFD) or a high-fat diet (HFD) for 6 weeks, followed by selection of the normally obese (HFD), non-responders (NR), super-responders (SR), or super-responders switched back to the low-fat diet (SR-LFD) for an additional 8 weeks. SR mice showed the highest gains in body weight, lean and fat body mass, and total and free water, in part due to increased feed efficiency, despite having a respiratory exchange ratio (RER) similar to that of NR mice. A switch to the LFD was sufficient to revert most of the observed physiological changes in the SR-LFD mice; however, voluntary physical activity and exercise capacity did not return to the basal level. NR mice showed the highest food intake, lowest feed efficiency, increased oxygen consumption during the light (rest) cycle, increased physical activity during the dark (active) cycle, and increased heat production during both cycles. These variations were observed in the absence of changes in food intake and fecal parameters; however, NR fecal lipid content was lower, and the NR fecal microbiome profile was characterized by reduced abundance of Actinobacteria. Taken together, our findings suggest that NR mice showed an increased ability to metabolize excessive dietary fats in skeletal muscle at the expense of reduced exercise capacity that persisted for the duration of the study. These findings underscore the need for further comprehensive investigations into the mechanisms of obesity resistance, as they hold potential implications for weight-loss strategies in human subjects.

Obesity and malnutrition in children and adults: A clinical review

Background

In the U.S., children and adults are consuming more low-nutrient foods with added sugar and excess fats as compared to healthy, high-quality calories and micronutrients. This diet is increasing the prevalence of malnutrition and nutritional deficiencies, despite high calorie intake. This is a review of the common micronutrient deficiencies, the risk factors for malnutrition, dietary plans, and the health consequences in children and adults with obesity in the U.S.

Methods

This clinical review of literature was performed on the MEDLINE (PubMed) search engine. A total of 1391 articles were identified and after review, a total of 130 were found to be most pertinent.

Discussion

The most common micronutrient deficiencies found in patients with obesity were vitamin A, thiamine (B1), folate (B9), cobalamin (B12), vitamin D, iron, calcium, and magnesium, especially prior and after bariatric surgery. Diets that produced the most weight reduction also further puts these individuals at risk for worsening malnutrition. Malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies can worsen health outcomes if not properly managed.

Conclusion

Adequate screening and awareness of malnutrition can improve the health outcomes in patients with obesity. Physiologic changes in response to increased adiposity and inadequate intake increase this population's risk of adverse health effects. Malnutrition affects the individual and contributes to worse public health outcomes. The recommendations for screening for malnutrition are not exclusive to individuals undergoing bariatric procedures and can improve the health outcomes of any patient with obesity. However, clearly, improved nutritional status can assist with metabolism and prevent adverse nutritional outcomes post-bariatric surgery. Clinicians should advise on proper nutrition and be aware of diets that worsen deficiencies.

Surgical Emergencies in Patients with Significant Comorbid Diseases

Emergency surgery in patients with significant comorbidities benefits from a structured approach to preoperative evaluation, intra-operative intervention, and postoperative management. Providing goal concordant care is ideal using shared decision-making. When operation cannot achieve the patient's goal, non-operative therapy including Comfort Care is appropriate. When surgical therapy is offered, preoperative physiology-improving interventions are far fewer than in other phases. Reevaluation of clinical care progress helps define trajectory and inform goals of care. Palliative Care Medicine may be critical in supporting loved ones during a patient's critical illness. Outcome evaluation defines successful strategies and outline opportunities for improvement.

Prevalence of nutrition disorders and nutrition-related conditions in older patients with Alzheimer's disease

BACKGROUNDS

Alzheimer's disease is frequently encountered with nutrition-related conditions such as malnutrition, sarcopenia, frailty, overnutrition, and micronutrient abnormalities in older patients. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence of nutrition disorders and nutrition-related conditions in the same patient group.

METHODS

A total of 253 older patients with Alzheimer's disease underwent comprehensive geriatric assessment, which included nutrition-related disorders, malnutrition via the Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF), frailty via the Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS), and sarcopenia was diagnosed according to European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People-2 criteria.

RESULTS

The patients' mean age was 79.8 ± 6.5 years, and 58.1% were women. In our patients, 64.8% had malnutrition or were at risk of malnutrition; 38.3% had sarcopenia; 19.8% were prefrail; and 80.2% were frail. Malnutrition, frailty, and sarcopenia prevalence increased as the Alzheimer's disease stage progressed. Malnutrition was found to be significantly related with frailty scores via CFS (odds ratio [OR], 1.397; P = 0.0049) and muscle mass via fat-free mass index (FFMI) (OR, 0.793; P = 0.001). In logistic regression analysis, age, MNA-SF, and CFS were included in the model to detect the independent correlates of probable and confirmed sarcopenia. CFS was independently associated with probable and confirmed sarcopenia (OR, 1.822; P = 0.013; OR, 2.671; P = 0.001, respectively). Frailty was similarly related with FFMI (OR, 0.836; P = 0.031). Obesity was independently related with FFMI (OR, 0.688; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, nutrition disorders and nutrition-related conditions can present concurrently in patients with all stages of Alzheimer's disease; therefore, these frequent problems should be screened and diagnosed accordingly.

Geriatric nutrition risk index in the prediction of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in elderly hypertensive population: NHANES 1999-2016

Background

Hypertension is a major risk factor for the global burden of disease, and nutrition is associated with an increased risk of mortality from multiple diseases. Few studies have explored the association of nutritional risk with all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in hypertension, and our study aims to fill this knowledge gap.

Method

We included data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 1999 to 2016 on a total of 10,037 elderly patients with hypertension. The nutritional status was evaluated using the Geriatric Nutrition Risk Index (GNRI). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to analyze the survival rates of different nutritional risk groups. COX proportional risk regression models were used to analyze the predictive effect of GNRI on all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in hypertensive patients. Restricted cubic splines (RCS) were used to explore the nonlinear relationship between GNRI and mortality.

Result

The mean age of the hypertensive patients was 70.7 years. A total of 4255 (42.3%) all-cause mortality and 1207 (17.2%) cardiovascular mortality occurred during a median follow-up period of 106 months. Kaplan-Meier showed a more significant reduction in survival for the moderate to severe malnutrition risk of GNRI. The adjusted COX proportional hazards model showed that the hazard ratios for all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in the moderate to severe malnutrition risk group for GNRI were 2.112 (95% CI, 1.377,3.240) and 2.604 (95% CI, 1.603,4.229), respectively. The RCS showed that increased GNRI was associated with a reduced risk of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality risk reduction.

Conclusion

Malnutrition exposure assessed by GNRI effectively predicts the risk of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in the elderly with hypertension.

Nutritional Status of People with a Coexisting Chronic Wound and Extended Assessment Using Bioelectrical Impedance

The diagnosis of malnutrition should be one of the pillars of comprehensive patient care, especially in the case of patients with large wounds, prolonged healing, or comorbidities. The condition for a reliable and accurate nutritional diagnosis is to link it with the parameters of nutritional status assessment at the basic level (anthropometric measurements and clinical assessment) and in depth (biochemical tests and bioelectrical impedance). A prospective study included a sample of 60 patients with coexisting chronic wounds (venous ulcers, diabetic foot syndrome, pressure injury) treated at the Wound Treatment Clinic of Fr. B. Markiewicz Podkarpackie Oncology Center (Poland). The method of estimation and diagnostic survey was used; the research tool was a scientific research protocol consisting of four parts. Self-care capacity was assessed based on the Barthel scale, nutritional status using blood biochemical parameters, and electrical bioimpedance. Wounds were classified according to the extent, depth of tissue structures, and potential infection. Subjects with pressure ulcers had statistically significantly lower fat-free mass component indices compared to those with diabetic foot syndrome and venous ulceration. The subjects with pressure ulcers had significantly lower values of body composition components compared to those with diabetic foot syndrome and venous ulcers. In the group of patients with pressure ulcers, the lowest values of albumin (3.20 g/dL), hemoglobin (10.81 g/dL), and nutritional risk index (NRI) (88.13 pts.) scores were confirmed. Subjects with pressure ulcers with limited self-care presented a non-physiological nutritional status, indicating a risk of malnutrition. Local actions related to wound treatment should be preceded by a general examination, considering the state of augmented nutrition with the use of electrical bioimpedance.

Food Insecurity and Nutritional Challenges in Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors in the U.S.A.: A Narrative Review and Call to Action

Advancements in cancer treatments over the past several decades have led to improved cancer survival in adolescents and young adults (AYAs, ages 15–39 years). However, AYA cancer survivors are at an increased risk for “late effects”, including cardiovascular, pulmonary and bone diseases as well as fatigue, infertility and secondary cancers. The treatments for cancer may also alter taste, lead to nutritional deficiencies and increase financial burdens that, when taken together, may increase the risk of food and nutrition security in AYA cancer survivors. Furthermore, although AYAs are often merged together in cancer survivorship studies, adolescents and young adults have distinct developmental, psychosocial and pathophysiological differences that may modify their risk of nutritional challenges. In this narrative review and “Call to Action”, rationale is provided for why there is a need to better understand nutritional challenges and food insecurity in AYA cancer survivors as a special population. Then, recommendations for next steps to advance knowledge and policy in this field are provided. In particular, integrating screening for food and nutrition insecurity and enhancing awareness of existing resources (e.g., the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, SNAP) might help AYA cancer survivors combat nutritional deficiencies and reduce late effects while improving their overall survival and quality of life.

Immunomodulatory Role of Microelements in COVID-19 Outcome: a Relationship with Nutritional Status

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). SARS-CoV-2 infection can activate innate and adaptive immune responses and result in massive inflammatory responses in the disease. A comprehensive understanding of the participation of micronutrients in the immune response to COVID-19 will allow the creation of prevention and supplementation scenarios in malnutrition states. Microelement deficiency can be decisive in the progression of diseases and their optimal levels can act as protective factors, helping to maintain homeostasis. Vitamin A, B, D, selenium, zinc, and copper, through their complementary and synergistic effects, allow the components of innate and adaptive immunity to counteract infections like those occurring in the respiratory tract.Thus, alterations in nutritional status are related to metabolic diseases, systemic inflammation, and deterioration of the immune system that alter the response against viral infections, such as COVID-19. The aim of this review is to describe the micronutrients that play an important role as immunomodulators and its relationship between malnutrition and the development of respiratory infections with an emphasis on severe and critical COVID-19. We conclude that although an unbalanced diet is not the only risk factor that predisposes to COVID-19, a correct and balanced diet, which provides the optimal amount of micronutrients and favors an adequate nutritional status, could confer beneficial effects for prevention and improvement of clinical results. The potential usefulness of micronutrient supplementation in special cases is highlighted.

Predictive Value of Prognostic Nutritional Index for Early Postoperative Mobility in Elderly Patients with Pertrochanteric Fracture Treated with Intramedullary Nail Osteosynthesis

BACKGROUND

Early postoperative mobilization is essential for orthogeriatric patients. The prognostic nutritional index (PNI) is widely used to evaluate nutritional status. This study sought to investigate the predictive value of PNI for early postoperative mobility in patients with pertrochanteric femur fractures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study included 156 geriatric patients with pertrochanteric femur fractures treated with TFN-Advance™ (DePuy Synthes, Raynham, MA, USA). Mobility was evaluated on the third postoperative day and by discharge. Stepwise logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the association significance of PNI with postoperative mobility together with comorbidities. The optimal PNI cut-off value for mobility was analyzed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

RESULTS

Three days postoperatively, PNI was an independent predictor of mobility (OR: 1.14, 95% CI: 1.07-1.23, p < 0.01). By discharge, it was found that PNI (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.08-1.30, p < 0.01) and dementia (OR: 0.17, 95% CI: 0.07-0.40, p < 0.001) were significant predictors. PNI correlated weakly with age (r = -0.27, p < 0.001). The PNI cut-off value for mobility on the third postoperative day was 38.1 (specificity = 78.5%, sensitivity = 63.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that PNI is an independent predictor of early postoperative mobility in geriatric patients with pertrochanteric femur fractures treated with TFNA™.

Does colour variety accurately quantify nutritional value in children's lunchboxes? A pilot study

Objectives

In advocating a diet rich in fruit and vegetables, public health authorities emphasise dietary colour variety to ensure adequate nutrient consumption. The relationship between food colour variety and nutritional value in children's lunches attending one school was evaluated.

Study design

Observational cross-sectional study.

Methods

Eighty-two children had their lunchboxes photographed over one day. Foods were scored using the Nutri-score labelling system, assigning foods a letter based on nutritional content. Composite Nutri-scores were calculated as average total Nutri-score per food per lunchbox. Eleven observers used a colour chart to assign colours to foods from a sample of lunchboxes; intra-class correlation was calculated. Associations between nutrient scores and colour variety were estimated.

Results

Lunchboxes contained an average of 4 ± 1 colours. Number of colours did not vary by age or sex. Two thirds of lunches had composite Nutri-scores of C or better, with better scores in older children. There was no association between colour variety and composite Nutri-score. Fruit, vegetables, whole grains and fats were associated with greater colour variety. Vegetables and meat, fish and eggs were associated with better scores; refined grains, dairy, snacks, fats and condiments were associated with worse.

Conclusions

Although this study did not demonstrate a relationship between colour variety and nutritional score, findings suggest that lunches containing fruit and vegetables tended towards greater colour variety than those without. This indicates that adjusting guidelines to incorporate food colour variety may be of use in future iterations of dietary guidelines for children.

Fighting Obesity-Related Micronutrient Deficiencies through Biofortification of Agri-Food Crops with Sustainable Fertilization Practices

Obesity is a critical medical condition worldwide that is increasingly involved with nutritional derangements associated with micronutrient deficiencies, including iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium, selenium, and vitamins A, C, D, and E. Nutritional deficiencies in obesity are mainly caused by poor-quality diets, higher nutrient requirements, alterations in micronutrient metabolism, and invasive obesity treatments. The current conventional agricultural system is designed for intensive food production, focusing on food quantity rather than food quality, consuming excessive agricultural inputs, and producing nutrient-deficient foods, thus generating severe health and environmental problems; agricultural food products may worsen obesity-related malnutrition. Therefore, modern agriculture is adopting new biofortification technologies to combat micronutrient deficiencies and improve agricultural productivity and sustainability. Biofertilization and nanofertilization practices are increasingly used due to their efficiency, safety, and reduced environmental impact. Biofertilizers are preparations of PGP-microorganisms that promote plant growth by influencing plant metabolism and improving the nutrient uptake, and nanofertilizers consist of synthesized nanoparticles with unique physicochemical properties that are capable of increasing plant nutrition and enriching agricultural products. This review presents the current micronutrient deficiencies associated with obesity, the modern unsustainable agri-food system contributing to obesity progression, and the development of bio- and nanofertilizers capable of biofortifying agri-food crops with micronutrients commonly deficient in patients with obesity.

Food insecurity as a risk factor of sarcopenic obesity in older adults

Sarcopenic obesity is characterized by the loss of muscle strength, mass and muscle functionality and increased adipose tissue (obesity) according to different criteria and cut-off points. The prevalence of sarcopenic obesity among older adults is growing worldwide, and many factors are involved in its development. Diet and food security have been described as the main contributors to the development of obesity and sarcopenia. Food insecurity consists of limited or uncertain access to adequate and nutritious foods. This narrative review aims to summarize the existing data on food insecurity as a risk factor for sarcopenic obesity in the elderly.

Obesity and critical care nutrition: current practice gaps and directions for future research

Background

This review has been developed following a panel discussion with an international group of experts in the care of patients with obesity in the critical care setting and focuses on current best practices in malnutrition screening and assessment, estimation of energy needs for patients with obesity, the risks and management of sarcopenic obesity, the value of tailored nutrition recommendations, and the emerging role of immunonutrition. Patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) increasingly present with overweight and obesity that require individualized nutrition considerations due to underlying comorbidities, immunological factors such as inflammation, and changes in energy expenditure and other aspects of metabolism. While research continues to accumulate, important knowledge gaps persist in recognizing and managing the complex nutritional needs in ICU patients with obesity. Available malnutrition screening and assessment tools are limited in patients with obesity due to a lack of validation and heterogeneous factors impacting nutrition status in this population. Estimations of energy and protein demands are also complex in patients with obesity and may include estimations based upon ideal, actual, or adjusted body weight. Evidence is still sparse on the role of immunonutrition in patients with obesity, but the presence of inflammation that impacts immune function may suggest a role for these nutrients in hemodynamically stable ICU patients. Educational efforts are needed for all clinicians who care for complex cases of critically ill patients with obesity, with a focus on strategies for optimal nutrition and the consideration of issues such as weight stigma and bias impacting the delivery of care.

Conclusions

Current nutritional strategies for these patients should be undertaken with a focus on individualized care that considers the whole person, including the possibility of preexisting comorbidities, altered metabolism, and chronic stigma, which may impact the provision of nutritional care. Additional research should focus on the applicability of current guidelines and evidence for nutrition therapy in populations with obesity, especially in the setting of critical illness.

Obesity may increase survival, regardless of nutritional status: a Swedish cohort study in nursing homes

Background

To investigate the associations between the body mass index (BMI), Mini Nutritional Assessment–Short Form (MNA-SF) scores, and 2-year mortality.

Methods

A nationwide cohort study using data from a national quality register of older (age ≥ 65 years) nursing home residents (N = 47,686). Individuals were categorized according to BMI as underweight (< 18.5 kg/m²), normal-weight (18.5–24.9 kg/m²), overweight (25.0–29.9 kg/m²), and obese (class I, 30.0–34.9 kg/m²; class II, 35.0–39.9 kg/m²; class III, ≥ 40.0 kg/m²). Participants’ nutritional status were categorized as good (MNA-SF score 12–14), at risk of malnutrition (MNA-SF score 8–11), or malnutrition (MNA-SF score 0–7). Associations with mortality were analysed using Cox proportional-hazards models.

Results

At baseline, 16.0% had obesity, and 14.6% were malnourished. During 2 years of follow-up, 23,335 (48.9%) individuals died. Compared with normal-weight individuals, mortality was greater among underweight individuals [hazard ratio (HR) 1.62, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.55–1.69] and lesser among individuals with class I (HR 0.63, 95% CI 0.60–0.66), class II (HR 0.62, 95% CI 0.56–0.68), and class III (HR 0.80, 95% CI 0.69–0.94) obesity. Compared with individuals with good nutritional status, mortality was increased for those with malnutrition (HR 2.98,95% CI 2.87–3.10). Lower mortality among obese individuals was also seen in subgroups defined according to MNA-SF scores.

Conclusions

Among older nursing home residents, obesity, including severe obesity, was associated with lower 2-year mortality. Higher BMIs were associated with better survival, regardless of nutritional status according to MNA-SF.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-022-03356-1.

Sarcopenia, Obesity, Sarcopenic Obesity and Risk of Poor Nutritional Status in Polish Community-Dwelling Older People Aged 60 Years and Over

Poor nutritional status (PNS) is a modifiable factor determining abnormalities in body composition-sarcopenia, obesity, and sarcopenic obesity (SO). We aimed to assess the prevalence of these conditions and their association with PNS in 211 community-dwelling older adults. Sarcopenia was diagnosed based on the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2 (EWGSOP2) recommendations. Obesity was diagnosed with the Percent Body Fat (>42% in women and >30% in men). Subjects fulfilling the criteria for obesity and concomitantly with reduced lower and/or upper limbs muscle strength and muscle mass (ALM/BMI < 0.512 in women and <0.789 in men) were classified as SO phenotype. Participants without obesity and sarcopenia were categorized as ‘normal’ phenotype. Nutritional status was estimated with the Mini Nutritional Assessment, and a score of <24 indicated PNS. In total, 49.8% participants had abnormal body composition (60.7% men and 42.5% women; p = 0.001). Sarcopenia, obesity, and SO were diagnosed in 10%, 32.7%, and 7.1% of subjects. PNS was found in 31.3% of the study sample. Its prevalence differed between phenotypes: 81% in sarcopenia, 60% in SO, 14.5% in obesity, and 28.3% in the ‘normal’ phenotype group (p = 0.000). Based on the results, abnormal body composition is prevalent in elderly subjects. Sarcopenia and SO are often associated with PNS.

Prevalence of low skeletal muscle mass following bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Evidence on the occurrence of low skeletal muscle mass (low-SMM) following bariatric surgery (BS) as well as on the impact of low-SMM antedating BS on post-surgical body composition (BC) are scant. In this context, we aimed to prospectively evaluate the prevalence of low-SMM prior to and up to 5 years after BS, and to evaluate pre-surgical low-SMM as an independent risk factor for the presence of low-SMM after BS.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected database. BC was assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). A BIA-based formula was used to calculate skeletal muscle mass (SMM). Class I and class II low-SMM were defined respectively as a SMM index (SMMI = SMM/height²) value between -1 and -2, or > -2 standard deviations from the gender-specific regression line of the BMI versus the SMMI relationship in our reference group.

RESULTS

A total 952 subjects were included, with BC being available for 877 (92%) subjects at 12 months and for 576 subjects (60%) at 60 months after BS. Prior to surgery, and at 12-, or at 60-months after surgery, class I and class II low-SMM was ascertained respectively in 15.6% and 4.6%, 5.3% and 1.4%, and 16.6% and 6.3% of the study participants. Logistic regression analysis showed that the occurrence of low-SMM at 12- and 60-months follow-up, was independently predicted not only by age at the time of surgery [respectively, HR: 1.052 (95% CI 1.020-1.084), p = 0.001; and 1.042 (95% CI 1.019-1.066); p < 0.001] but also by the presence of low-SMM prior to surgery [respectively, HR: 10.717 (95% CI 5.771-19.904), p < 0.001; and 5.718 (95% CI 3.572-9.153); p < 0.001].

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that a low-SMM phenotype occurs not only in obesity surgery candidates but also after BS, and that low-SMM prior to surgery is an important risk factor for low-SMM throughout post-surgical follow-up.

Does lower quality of life and daily living activity increase nutritional risk of elderly residing in care home facilities?

INTRODUCTION

Aging is a predictable phenomenon that its prevalence is increasing dramatically in the world. There is an association between quality of life, functional independence, and nutritional risk in elderlies, so the aim of the current study is the evaluation of the quality of life and functional independence's effects on nutritional status.

METHODS

A total of 160 elderly people that had a hospitalization for at least 6 months in the care home facilities were selected from 2 care home facility centers to participate in the study. Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered using questionnaires for demographic characteristics, health data, eating habits, quality of life (WHOQOL-BREF), functional assessment (Barthel Index), and mini-nutrition assessment (MNA) throughout the face-to-face interview.

RESULTS

The overall quality of life score, age, weight, and BMI differed significantly between malnourished and well-nourished subjects. Also, the daily living activity score of subjects who were well-nourished was higher than malnourished participants. Higher daily living activity decreased the risk of being malnourished (OR _{malnutrition/well-nourished} = 0.306, P < 0.001). There was also a significant relationship between BMI (OR _{malnutrition/well-nourished} = 0.731, P = 0.001; OR _{at-risk/well-nourished} = 0.786, P = 0.003) and marital status with MNA score (OR _{single/married} = 1.460, P = 0.001 for malnutrition; OR _{single/married} = 1.183, P = 0.004 for being at risk of malnutrition).

CONCLUSIONS

The elderly living in nursing homes are exposed to nutritional risks and mental disorders. So with timely assessment and interventions to improve the quality of life and physical and mental health of elder dwellers, their malnutrition can be prevented.

Prevalence of Undernutrition and Risk of Undernutrition in Overweight and Obese Older People

Older people with excess body weight are not spared from undernutrition. They may face appetite decline which may lead to insufficient nutrient intake. They also have a higher risk of developing chronic diseases which may have a negative impact on protein-anabolic pathways. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of undernutrition in overweight and obese older people from a secondary analysis on data collected through two French surveys among people aged 65 or over (n = 782; 31% men; 65–103 years old). Undernutrition was assessed using the MNA screening tool (Mini-Nutritional Assessment). Results showed that 2% of the respondents with a BMI over 25 were undernourished (MNA score below 17/30) and 23% were at risk of undernutrition (MNA score of 17–23.5). Specifically, 18% of overweight and 29% of obese respondents were at risk of undernutrition. Taking into account the most recent French census data, it can be estimated that in France, around 1,7 million people aged over 65 with a BMI over 25 are undernourished or at risk of undernutrition. Given the worldwide increase in the number of overweight/obese individuals in the last few decades, further research will be needed to develop strategies to tackle nutritional risk in overweight/obese older adults.

Malnutrition management of hospitalized patients with diabetes/hyperglycemia and COVID-19 infection

Diabetes mellitus and/or hyperglycemia are highly prevalent medical conditions in patients hospitalized for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and are associated with adverse outcomes. In addition, COVID-19 itself can provoke fluctuating and high glucose levels that can be difficult to manage upon hospitalization. Hospitalized patients with COVID-19 are at high risk of malnutrition due to an increase in nutritional requirements and a severe acute inflammatory response. The management of patients with diabetes/hyperglycemia and COVID-19 is challenging and requires a specific nutritional approach, the purpose of which is to fulfill the nutritional requirements while maintaining an optimal glycemic control. In this study, an expert group of nutritional endocrinologists carried out a qualitative literature review and provided recommendations based on evidence and guidelines, when available, or on their own experience. The optimal care based on these recommendations was compared with the routine bedside care as reported by a panel of physicians (mainly, endocrinologists, geriatricians, and internists) treating patients with diabetes/hyperglycemia and COVID-19 in their daily practice. Early screening and diagnosis, a diabetes-specific therapeutic approach, and a close malnutrition monitoring are essential to improve the clinical outcomes of these patients. In conclusion, the proposed recommendations are intended to provide a useful guide on the clinical management of malnutrition in patients with COVID-19 and diabetes/hyperglycemia, in order to improve their outcomes and accelerate their recovery. The comparison of the recommended optimal care with routine clinical practice could aid to identify gaps in knowledge, implementation difficulties, and areas for improvement in the management of malnutrition in this population.

Breakfast Skipping among a Multi-Ethnic Population of Young Men and Relationship with Sociodemographic Determinants and Weight Status

Breakfast skipping is linked with obesity incidence. This study was conducted to assess the prevalence of breakfast skipping among a multi-ethnic population of young men residing in Saudi Arabia and its relationship with sociodemographic determinants and weight status. A total of 3600 young men aged 20 to 35 years and living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, were involved in this cross-sectional study. Sociodemographic determinants and breakfast-consumption frequency were collected from subjects by personal interviews. This study defines breakfast skipping as skipping breakfast at least one day per week. Weight and height were measured following standardized methods. The prevalence of breakfast skipping was observed among 52.8% of the study subjects. Nationality was a predictor of breakfast skipping, with the lowest and highest rates of breakfast skipping reported among young men from Bangladesh (14.0%) and Saudi Arabia (86.5%), respectively. Weight status was another predictor of breakfast skipping, as the mean body mass index for breakfast skippers (25.4 kg/m2) was significantly (p-value < 0.001) higher than that for breakfast consumers (24.8 kg/m2). Overweight/obese subjects have a significantly higher rate of breakfast skipping (56.9%) than underweight/normal weight subjects (48.9%). In conclusion, breakfast skipping prevalence is relatively high among young men residing in Saudi Arabia. The findings confirm a relationship between breakfast skipping and sociodemographic determinants and weight status.

Low calf circumference can predict nutritional risk and mortality in adults with metabolic syndrome aged over 80 years

BACKGROUND

Metabolic disorders and malnutrition are a double burden worldwide. The aim was to determine whether low calf circumference (CC) could predict nutritional risk and the cut-off values of CC for predicting nutritional risk in metabolic syndrome (MetS) patients aged over 80 years. We aimed to evaluate the risk factors for predicting mortality in MetS.

METHODS

A total of 514 patients aged over 80 years with MetS were enrolled and followed for 2.5 years. On admission, demographic data, CC, and laboratory parameters were obtained. Patients with a Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 (NRS 2002) total score ≥ 3 were considered to have nutritional risk.

RESULTS

The CC level was significantly lower in the nutritional risk group than in the non-nutritional risk with MetS group (27.1 ± 4.0 cm vs. 30.8 ± 3.9 cm). Logistic regression analysis of nutritional risk revealed that increasing CC (adjusted OR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.74-0.88) was an independent protective factor against nutrition risk. The best CC cut-off value for predicting nutritional risk according to the NRS 2002 was 28.8 cm. Cox regression multivariate models showed nutritional risk (HR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.22-5.04) and decreased CC (HR, 2.78; 95% CI, 1.27-5.98) remained independent risk factors for mortality.

CONCLUSION

Decreased CC could predict not only nutritional risk but also mortality in MetS patients aged over 80 years. The elderly who had MetS with nutritional risk should be discovered early, early intervention and early treatment. CC may be a valuable index to screen out this population.

Breakfast Skipping in a Multi-Ethnic Population of Middle-Aged Men and Relationship With Sociodemographic Variables and Weight Status

Background

Breakfast eating is regarded to be necessary for maintaining a healthy body weight. On the other hand, breakfast skipping has been linked with obesity incidence. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of breakfast skipping among a multi-ethnic group of middle-aged men living in Saudi Arabia and the association between breakfast skipping and sociodemographic variables and weight status.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 1,800 middle-aged men aged 36–59 years. Participants' sociodemographic information and frequency of breakfast eating were obtained through personal interviews. The body mass index was determined after measuring body weight and height using standardized methods.

Results

The prevalence of breakfast skipping was 42.1% of the study participants. Nationality was a predictor of breakfast skipping. Bangladeshi participants (N = 100) have the lowest rate of breakfast skipping (9.0%), whilst Saudi participants (N = 161) have the highest rate (73.3%). Weight status was another predictor of breakfast skipping as breakfast skippers had a significantly higher average body mass index (27.1 ± 3.8) than breakfast consumers (26.2 ± 3.5). Overweight/obese participants have a significantly higher breakfast skipping rate (44.9%) than participants with underweight/normal weight (36.6%).

Conclusion

The rate of breakfast skipping is relatively high among middle-aged men living in Saudi Arabia. The data support a link between breakfast skipping and sociodemographic variables and weight status.

Association between body mass index and newly diagnosed drug-resistant pulmonary tuberculosis in Shandong, China from 2004 to 2019

BACKGROUND

Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB), obesity, and malnutrition are growing public health problems in the world. However, little has discussed the impact of different BMI status on the emergence of TB drug resistance. We aimed to explore the drug-resistant profiles of DR-TB and its clinical predictors among underweight, overweight or obesity population.

METHODS

8957 newly diagnosed TB cases with drug susceptibility results and BMI data in Shandong China, from 2004 to 2019 were enrolled. Multivariable and univariable logistic regression models were applied to investigate the impact of BMI on different drug-resistance. Clinical predicators and drug-resistant profiles of DR-TB among obesity, underweight, normal TB group were also described.

RESULTS

Among 8957 TB cases, 6417 (71.64%) were normal weight, 2121 (23.68%) were underweight, 373 (4.16%) were overweight, and 46 (0.51%) were obese. The proportion of drug resistance and co-morbidity among normal weight, underweight, overweight, obese TB groups were 18.86%/18.25%/20.38%/23.91% (DR-TB), 11.19%/11.74%/9.65%/17.39% (mono-resistant tuberculosis, MR-TB), 3.41%/3.06%/5.36%/0.00% (multidrug resistant tuberculosis, MDR-TB), 4.21%/3.39%/5.36%/6.52% (polydrug resistant tuberculosis, PDR-TB), 10.57%/8.44%/19.57%/23.91% (co-morbidity), respectively. Compared with normal weight group, underweight were associated with lower risk of streptomycin-related resistance (OR 0.844, 95% CI 0.726-0.982), but contributed to a higher risk of MR-TB (isoniazid) (odds ratio (OR) 1.347, 95% CI 1.049-1.730; adjusted OR (aOR) 1.31, 95% CI 1.017-1.686), P < 0.05. In addition, overweight were positively associated with MDR-TB (OR 1.603, 95% CI 1.002-2.566; aOR 1.639, 95% CI 1.02-2.633), isoniazid + rifampicin + streptomycin resistance (OR 1.948, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.061-3.577; aOR 2.113, 95% CI 1.141-3.912), Any isoniazid + streptomycin resistance (OR 1.472, 95% CI 1.013-2.14; aOR 1.483, 95% CI 1.017-2.164), P < 0.05.

CONCLUSIONS

The higher risk of MDR-TB, isoniazid + rifampicin + streptomycin resistance, Any isoniazid + streptomycin resistance, and co-morbidity among overweight population implies that routine screening for drug sensitivity and more attention on co-morbidity among overweight TB cases may be necessary. In addition, underweight TB cases have a higher risk of isoniazid resistance. Our study suggests that an in-depth study of the interaction between host metabolic activity and infection of DR-TB may contribute more to novel treatment options or preventive measures, and accelerate the implementation of the STOP TB strategy.

Influence of nutritional status in the postoperative period of patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are a group of chronic inflammatory diseases that affect the gastrointestinal tract, including Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis. Surgery is a treatment option, and more than half of the patients with CD will undergo surgical interventions over the course of the disease. Postoperative complications are common in IBD patients, the most frequent being intra-abdominal sepsis, infection of the surgical site, and adynamic ileum, and nutritional status is a factor that can influence postoperative outcome. Recent studies have shown that malnutrition, obesity, sarcopenia, and myosteatosis are predictors of surgical complications. However, most were retrospective studies with small patient samples and heterogeneity of clinical and nutritional assessment methods, which limit the extrapolation of data. Therefore, knowing the pathophysiological mechanisms of IBD and identifying the best parameters for assessing nutritional status are essential for prompt implementation of adequate nutritional interventions.

Nutrition Care for Poorly Nourished Outpatients Reduces Resource Use and Lowers Costs

Background and Objectives:

Over 25% of United States (US) community-dwelling, older adults are at nutritional risk. Health and cost burdens of poor nutrition can be lowered by nutrition programs for hospital inpatients, but few studies have looked at the impact on outpatients. The objective of our study was to assess outcomes of a nutrition focused quality improvement program (QIP) on healthcare resource use and costs in poorly nourished outpatients.

Methods:

This pre-post QIP study was implemented at 3 US healthcare system clinics. Included patients (n = 600) were ≥45 years old, had ≥2 chronic conditions, and were enrolled over a 15-month interval. For comparison, historical (n = 600) and concurrent control (n = 600) groups were used. Assessment of poor nutritional status was performed during each patient’s baseline visit. Healthcare resource use (hospitalizations, emergency department visits, and outpatient clinic visits), medication use, and costs were determined for a 90-day interval.

Results:

QIP patients (mean age 61.6 years) were predominantly female (62.5%) and overweight/obese (81.7%). The proportion of QIP outpatients presenting for healthcare services was significantly reduced compared to both historical and concurrent controls—relative risk reduction (RRR) versus historical (11.6%, P < .001) and versus concurrent (8.9%, P = .003). Of those who presented, RRR for healthcare resource use by QIP was significant in comparison with historical (12.9%, P = .022) but not concurrent controls. No significant differences were observed for medication usage. Lower resource use among QIP patients yielded total cost savings of $290 923 or per-patient savings of $485.

Conclusions:

Nutrition QIPs in outpatient clinics are feasible and can reduce healthcare resource use and cut costs. Such findings underscore benefits of nutritional interventions for community-dwelling outpatients with poor nutritional status.

Dietetics After Spinal Cord Injury: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives

Following spinal cord injury (SCI), individuals are at high risk for obesity and several chronic cardiometabolic disorders due to a deterioration in body composition, hypometabolic rate, and endometabolic dysregulation. Countermeasures to the consequences of an SCI include adopting a healthy diet that provides adequate nutrition to maintain good body habitus and cardiometabolic health. A proper diet for individuals with SCI should distribute carbohydrates, protein, and fat to optimize a lower energy intake requirement and should stress foods with low caloric yet high nutrient density. The purpose of this article is to present available evidence on how nutritional status after SCI should advance future research to further develop SCI-specific guidelines for total energy intake, as it relates to percent carbohydrates, protein, fat, and all vitamins and minerals, that take into consideration the adaptations after SCI.