Effects of Oral Nutritional Supplements on Mortality, Missed Dialysis Treatments, and Nutritional Markers in Hemodialysis Patients

Oral nutritional supplements improve clinical outcomes and are cost-effective for hospitalized patients in China

OBJECTIVE

This study assessed the therapeutic benefits and modeled the cost-effectiveness of oral nutritional supplements (ONS) in China.

METHODS

Data were collected from 27 152 adult inpatients between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2020. Propensity score matching was used for balancing the baseline characteristics between the ONS group and non-ONS group. A decision-tree model was developed to assess the cost-effectiveness of ONS for patients with nutritional risk, and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was the metric to determine the most cost-effective strategy. One-way sensitivity and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the model's stability. In addition, subgroup analysis was conducted based on clinical characteristics. Differences in clinical outcomes between the groups were compared using Student's t test, Mann-Whitney U test, or chi-square test.

RESULTS

The ONS group displayed significantly lower levels of prealbumin, albumin, hemoglobin, and BMI than the non-ONS group at admission. The incidence of malignant tumors, intestinal obstruction, and inflammatory bowel disease was significantly higher in the ONS group than the non-ONS group. The ONS group had a significantly higher effective rate than the non-ONS group (51.7% versus 50.3%, P < 0.05). Analysis of the decision-tree model revealed that the ONS group experienced an increase in cost of 19 850.96 yuan but achieved an additional 1.3406 effectiveness rate, resulting in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of 14 807.51, which fell below China's 2020 per capita gross domestic product of 71 965 yuan. Sensitivity analysis further confirmed the robustness of the model.

CONCLUSIONS

ONS are demonstrated a high rate of efficacy, although patients currently using ONS are typically in a severe disease state. In addition, ONS is cost-effective. We suggest that the reimbursement coverage of ONS be expanded to include in-hospital patients who are at high nutritional risk.

Impact of the geriatric nutritional risk index on long-term outcomes in patients undergoing hemodialysis: a meta-analysis of observational studies

Background

This meta-analysis aimed to synthesize current evidence on the association between the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) and long-term outcomes in patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Methods

Electronic databases were systematically searched for relevant studies that investigated the association between GNRI and long-term outcomes in hemodialysis patients until November 2023. The primary outcome was the association between the GNRI (i.e., low versus high) and overall mortality risk, while the secondary outcome was the relationship between the GNRI and cardiovascular mortality risk.

Results

Thirty cohort studies involving 55,864 patients were included. A low GNRI was found to be significantly associated with increased overall mortality (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.42, 95% confidence interval [CIs]: 2.10-2.79, p < 0.00001, I2 = 65%). Each unit increase in GNRI corresponded to a 5% reduction in mortality risk (HR: 0.95, 95% CI: 0.93-0.96, p < 0.00001, I2 = 79%). The association remained consistent across Asian (HR = 2.45, 95% CI: 2.08-2.88, p < 0.00001, I2 = 70%) and non-Asian subgroups (HR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.72-3.06, p < 0.00001, I2 = 23%). Meta-regression analysis of patient age (coefficient: -0.002; p = 0.896), male proportion (coefficient: 0.002; p = 0.875), percentage of diabetes mellitus (coefficient: -0.003; p = 0.605), and follow-up duration (coefficient: -0.003; p = 0.431) revealed that these moderator variables did not significantly influence the association between GNRI and overall mortality risk. Cardiovascular mortality risk also increased with low GNRI (HR, 1.93; 95%CI: 1.51-2.45, p < 0.00001; I2 = 2%). Similarly, an inverse association was observed between the GNRI values and cardiovascular mortality risk (HR, 0.94; 95% CI: 0.91-0.97; p < 0.0001; I2 = 65%) (per unit increase).

Conclusion

The GNRI is a simple nutritional screening tool that can be used to effectively stratify patients undergoing hemodialysis globally. Further studies are warranted to determine whether nutrition optimization based on the GNRI improves long-term outcomes.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, CRD42023483729.

Effects of oral nutritional supplements on the nutritional status and inflammatory markers in patients on maintenance dialysis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

Background and aims

Patients on hemodialysis (HD) or peritoneal dialysis (PD) often have insufficient energy and protein intake, resulting in poor nutritional status and adverse outcomes. Oral nutritional supplements (ONSs) are the most commonly used to increase such patients' energy and protein intakes.

Methods

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we analyzed studies on nutritional status, inflammatory markers, and electrolyte levels in patients on dialysis receiving ONSs. We searched four electronic databases from inception until 31 December 2022, for randomized controlled trials comparing ONS treatment versus placebo or routine care.

Results

22 studies with 1185 patients on dialysis were included in our meta-analysis. Compared with the control group, the ONS group exhibited significantly increased serum albumin levels [1.26 g/l (95%CI, 0.50-2.02, P < 0.0001; I2 = 80.4%)], body mass indexes (BMIs) [0.30 kg/m2 (95%CI, 0.09-0.52, P = 0.005; I2 = 41.4%)], and handgrip strength (HGS) [0.96 kg (95%CI, 0.07-1.84, P = 0.034; I2 = 41.4%)] from baseline to the end of intervention. No significant differences were observed between the groups in lean body mass, phase angle, C-reactive protein, and serum phosphorus and potassium levels. In terms of improving albumin, the subgroup analyses show that ONS use seems to be more inclined to three variations: HD patients, short-term use, and non-intradialytic supplementation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ONS use can improve the nutritional status of patients on dialysis in terms of their serum albumin, BMI, and HGS without significant effects on serum phosphorus, potassium, and C-reactive protein levels. However, it remains uncertain whether these results translate to improvement in clinically relevant outcomes. Large-scale high-quality studies are still required in this population.

Intradialytic Protein Ingestion and Exercise do Not Compromise Uremic Toxin Removal Throughout Hemodialysis

OBJECTIVE

Dietary protein and physical activity interventions are increasingly implemented during hemodialysis to support muscle maintenance in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Although muscle maintenance is important, adequate removal of uremic toxins throughout hemodialysis is the primary concern for patients. It remains to be established whether intradialytic protein ingestion and/or exercise modulate uremic toxin removal during hemodialysis.

METHODS

We recruited 10 patients with ESRD (age: 65 ± 16 y, BMI: 24.2 ± 4.8 kg/m²) on chronic hemodialysis treatment to participate in this randomized cross-over trial. During hemodialysis, patients were assigned to ingest 40 g protein or a nonprotein placebo both at rest (protein [PRO] and placebo [PLA], respectively) and following 30 min of exercise (PRO + exercise [EX] and PLA + EX, respectively). Blood and spent dialysate samples were collected throughout hemodialysis to assess reduction ratios and removal of urea, creatinine, phosphate, cystatin C, and indoxyl sulfate.

RESULTS

The reduction ratios of urea and indoxyl sulfate were higher during PLA (76 ± 6% and 46 ± 9%, respectively) and PLA + EX interventions (77 ± 5% and 45 ± 10%, respectively) when compared to PRO (72 ± 4% and 40 ± 8%, respectively) and PRO + EX interventions (73 ± 4% and 43 ± 7%, respectively; protein effect: P = .001 and P = .023, respectively; exercise effect: P = .25 and P = .52, respectively). Nonetheless, protein ingestion resulted in greater urea removal (P = .046) during hemodialysis. Reduction ratios and removal of creatinine, phosphate, and cystatin C during hemodialysis did not differ following intradialytic protein ingestion or exercise (protein effect: P > .05; exercise effect: P>.05). Urea, creatinine, and phosphate removal were greater throughout the period with intradialytic exercise during PLA + EX and PRO + EX interventions when compared to the same period during PLA and PRO interventions (exercise effect: P = .034, P = .039, and P = .022, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The removal of uremic toxins is not compromised by protein feeding and/or exercise implementation during hemodialysis in patients with ESRD.

Effect on nutritional status and biomarkers of inflammation and oxidation of an oral nutritional supplement (with or without probiotics) in malnourished hemodialysis patients. A multicenter randomized clinical trial "Renacare Trial"

Background

Malnutrition in patients undergoing hemodialysis is frequent and associated with a reduction in muscular mass and strength, with an increment in biomarkers of inflammation and oxidation.

Materials and methods

Randomized, multicenter, parallel-group trial in malnourished hemodialysis patients with three groups [(1) control (C) individualized diet, (2) oral nutritional supplement-ONS- + placebo-SU- PL-, and (3) ONS + probiotics-SU-PR]; the trial was open regarding the intake of ONS or individualized diet recommendations, but double-blind for the intake of probiotics. We obtained, at baseline and after 3 and 6 months, anthropometric measurements, handgrip strength, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), dietary records, and routine biochemical parameters. Inflammation and oxidation were determined using ELISA techniques (Versamax and ProcartaPlex multiplex Immunoassay). Results were analyzed by intention to treat.

Results

A total of 31 patients (11 corresponding to group C, 10 to SU-PL, and 10 to SU-PR) completed the 6-months trial. The two groups that took supplements significantly increased their protein calorie, fat (total and n-3), and fiber intake. Weight and fat-free mass (FFM) also increased significantly in the groups on supplements, both at 3 and 6 months, and dynamometry did so in the SU-PL group. At month 3, prealbumin and vitamin D were significantly increased in the SU-TOT (SU-PL + SU-PR) group. No changes were observed regarding levels of phosphorus and potassium in any of the groups. Urea increased significantly at 6 months in the SU-PL group. There were significant changes in some inflammation biomarkers in the groups on supplements during the intervention (brain-derived neurotrophic factor, bone morphogenetic protein-2, MCP-1, IL-1-beta, IL-10, IL-4, and IL-8). The total antioxidant capacity (TAC) increased significantly in the supplemented patients, with no significant changes observed in isoprostanes.

Conclusion

The specific ONS improved protein-calorie intake, nutritional status (mainly FFM), and some biomarkers of inflammation/oxidation. The addition of probiotics could have a synergistic effect with ONS in such biomarkers.

Clinical trail registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/, identifier NCT03924089.

Oral energy supplementation improves nutritional status in hemodialysis patients with protein-energy wasting: A pilot study

Background: Protein-energy wasting (PEW) is highly prevalent in hemodialysis (HD) patients, which is associated with poor quality of life, complications, and an increased risk of mortality. A prospective study in HD patients with 2 months of oral energy supplements (OESs) was performed. Methods: A total of 37 HD patients with PEW were finally enrolled in this prospective study and were randomized into the OES group (n = 19), which received oral energy supplementation (300 kcal) and dietary recommendations, while patients in the non-OES group (n = 18) received only dietary recommendations. The study duration was 2 months. The nutritional status of the patients was evaluated by laboratory indexes, body composition parameters, and the modified quantitative subjective global assessment (MQSGA) and malnutrition-inflammation score (MIS). Quality of life was evaluated by the Short Form Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36). Results: After 2 months of therapy, a significant increase in serum albumin [39.6 (37.6-45.8) vs. 43.4 (39.1-46.7) g/L; p = 0.018], hemoglobin (101.0 ± 13.6 g/L vs. 111.8 ± 11.7 g/L; p = 0.042), and dietary energy intake (29.17 ± 3.22 kcal/kg/day vs. 33.60 ± 2.72 kcal/kg/day, p < 0.001) was observed in the comparisons of baseline in the OES group. Moreover, the OES group demonstrated significant amelioration in MQSGA [9 (8-13) vs. 8 (7-12), p < 0.001] and MIS [5 (3-10) vs. 3 (2-8), p < 0.001], physical functioning (p < 0.001), and mental health (p = 0.046) subsections of SF-36 compared with the baseline. No electrolyte disorders or dyslipidemia were observed in the OES group. Conclusion: OES in HD patients with PEW can significantly ameliorate energy supply, nutritional status, anemia, and quality of life.

Sleep Quality After Intradialytic Oral Nutrition: A New Benefit of This Anabolic Strategy? A Pilot Study

Background

Since disturbances of appetite and sleep are closely related and both affect metabolic disorders, it would be expected that a renal specific oral nutritional supplement (RS-ONS) that covers the energy the patient does not consume on the HD day, could contribute to improve the nutritional status and body composition, as well as sleep quality. There is still scarce information related to this topic.

Aim

To evaluate the effect of the use of intra-dialytic RS-ONS vs. RS-ONS at home on sleep quality, nutritional status, and body composition in patients on HD.

Methods

Adult patients &lt; 65 years, with ≥3 months on HD were invited to participate in an open randomized pilot study (ISRCTN 33897). Patients were randomized to a dialysis-specific high-protein supplement provided during the HD session (Intradialytic oral nutrition [ION]) or at home (control), during non-HD days (thrice weekly, for both) 12 weeks. The primary outcome was sleep quality defined by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score. Nutritional assessment included Malnutrition Inflammation Score (MIS), bioelectrical impedance analysis, anthropometry, 3-day food records, and routine blood chemistries.

Results

A total of 23 patients completed the study. Age was median 35 (range 24–48 years), 42% were women. At baseline, the PSQI score was median 4 (range 2–7), and MIS showed a median of 6 (range 5–8); there were no baseline differences between groups. After intervention, both groups improved their MIS scores and similarly when we analyzed the whole cohort (pre- vs. post-intervention P &lt; 0.01). Patients in the ION group improved the overall PSQI score to median 3 (2–5), and assessment of sleep duration and sleep disturbances (pre- vs. post-intervention P &lt; 0.05), with a trend toward an effect difference compared to patients consuming the supplement at home (P for treatment-effect across arms 0.07 for PSQI score and 0.05 for sleep latency).

Conclusion

Oral supplementation improved nutritional status in the whole cohort, but only ION improved the PSQI score. More studies are needed to explore the nutritional strategies that influence the relationship between sleep and nutritional status in HD patients.

Trajectories of Nutritional Parameters Before and After Prescribed Oral Nutritional Supplements: A Longitudinal Cohort Study of Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease Not Requiring Dialysis

Background:

The association between oral nutritional supplement use and nutritional parameters among patients with nondialysis chronic kidney disease (CKD-ND) with or at high risk of undernutrition/protein-energy wasting has not been previously studied. The definition of patient subgroups most likely to benefit from oral nutritional supplementation (ONS) is also an area where more research is needed.

Objective:

To assess nutritional parameter trajectories among patients with CKD-ND prescribed oral nutritional supplements in British Columbia, and to compare trajectories by nutritional phenotype.

Design:

Longitudinal cohort study, pre-post design.

Setting:

Multidisciplinary CKD clinics across British Columbia.

Patients:

A total of 3957 adult patients with CKD-ND, who entered multidisciplinary CKD clinics during 2010 to 2019, met criteria for oral nutritional supplement prescription based on dietitian assessment, and received ≥1 oral nutritional supplement prescription.

Measurements:

Longitudinal nutritional parameters, including body mass index (BMI), serum albumin, serum bicarbonate, serum phosphate, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR).

Methods:

Using linear mixed models, slopes for nutritional and inflammation parameters were assessed in the 2-year periods before and after the first oral nutritional supplement prescription. Hierarchical cluster analysis was applied to identify nutritional phenotypes using baseline data, and slope analysis was repeated by cluster.

Results:

In the pre-oral-nutritional-supplement period, declines in BMI (−0.87 kg/m2/year, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.99 to −0.75), albumin (−1.11 g/L/year, 95% CI: −1.27 to −0.95), and bicarbonate (−0.49 mmol/L/year; 95% CI: −0.59 to −0.39), and increases in NLR (+0.79/year; 95% CI: 0.60 to 0.98) and phosphate (+0.05 mmol/L/year; 95% CI: 0.04 to 0.06) were observed. Following oral nutritional supplement prescription, there were statistically significant increases in BMI slope (+0.91 kg/m2/year, P < .0001), albumin slope (+0.82 g/L/year, P < .0001), and phosphate slope (+0.02 mmol/L/year, P = .005), as well as a decline in NLR slope of −0.55/year ( P < .0001). There was no significant change in bicarbonate slope. Cluster analysis identified 5 distinct phenotypes. The cluster with the highest mean baseline NLR and lowest mean BMI demonstrated the greatest number of improvements in nutritional parameter slopes in the post-oral-nutritional-supplement period.

Limitations:

Possibility of residual confounding. Data on dietary intake, muscle mass, and nutritional scoring systems were not available in the registry.

Conclusions:

Among patients with CKD-ND prescribed oral nutritional supplements, there were improvements in nutrition/inflammation parameters over time following the first ONS prescription. The heterogeneity in response to ONS by cluster subgroup suggests an individualized approach to nutritional management may be beneficial.

Nutritional Status, Nutritional Phenotypes, and Oral Nutritional Supplement Prescription Patterns Among Patients With Non-Dialysis Chronic Kidney Disease in British Columbia

OBJECTIVES

Management of protein-energy wasting and undernutrition with oral nutritional supplements (ONS) has not been systematically studied in the non-dialysis chronic kidney disease (CKD-ND) population. We aimed to describe nutritional status, identify phenotypes of patients prescribed ONS, and evaluate ONS prescription patterns among CKD-ND patients in British Columbia.

DESIGN AND METHODS

This observational study assessed adult CKD-ND patients who entered multidisciplinary CKD clinics during 2013-2018 in British Columbia. Descriptive statistics were used to describe baseline nutrition and inflammation parameters among patients prescribed ONS versus patients not prescribed ONS within 1 year of clinic entry. Hierarchical clustering method with consensus clustering was applied to identify phenotypes of patients prescribed ONS. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the associations between ONS prescription and health region/dietitian full-time equivalents per 1,000 CKD patients.

RESULTS

Of 15,859 CKD-ND patients, 9% of patients entering CKD clinics were prescribed ONS within 1 year of clinic entry, and these patients demonstrated lower baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate, body mass index (BMI), serum albumin, bicarbonate, as well as greater age, serum phosphate, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio compared with those not receiving ONS. Cluster analysis revealed 5 phenotypes of ONS users: cluster 1 had the highest mean neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio; cluster 2 had the lowest mean albumin; cluster 3 had the lowest mean BMI; cluster 4 had the highest mean BMI; and cluster 5 had the lowest mean bicarbonate. There was regional variability in ONS prescription, and an odds ratio for ONS prescription of 1.32 (95% confidence interval 1.16-1.50) for every 1-unit increase in dietitian full-time equivalents per 1,000 patients. Over 3 years of follow-up, overall ONS use among CKD-ND patients remained stable.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates appropriate prescribing of ONS to patients with suboptimal nutritional status, although regional variation exists. Patients receiving ONS represent a heterogenous group with phenotypes reflecting several clinical and biochemical features of the protein-energy wasting syndrome. These findings will assist with updating ONS policy, planning quality improvement initiatives, and informing dietitian resource allocation.

Changes in US Dialysis Dietitian Responsibilities and Patient Needs During the COVID-19 Pandemic

OBJECTIVE

This study described the job responsibilities and modalities of care among dialysis dietitians in the United States and their observations regarding the nutrition needs of their patients, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Cross-sectional online survey captures dietitian characteristics and responsibilities, dialysis facility characteristics, and patient needs. We recruited US dialysis dietitians. We used chi-square tests to compare respondent stress and facility-level policies regarding eating/drinking and oral nutrition supplements based on facility ownership type.

RESULTS

We received 191 complete or partial survey responses. Sixty-three percent of respondents stated that their center banned eating/drinking during dialysis due to COVID-19 masking policies. DaVita and non-profit facilities were significantly more likely to still allow eating/drinking during dialysis (31% and 29%, respectively) compared to Fresenius facilities (7%). A common theme in open-ended responses regarding nutrition care for COVID-19-positive patients was providing less care to these patients. A majority of respondents admitted to stress from working in healthcare during COVID-19. The majority of respondents indicated that patients were taking precautions such as having a family member or friend grocery shop for them (69%) or going to the store less often (60%). Just over a quarter of respondents indicated that affordability of food was a concern among patients. Seventy-two percent reported that patients were cooking at home more often, 60% had observed an increase in serum phosphorus, and 72% an increase in interdialytic weight gain.

CONCLUSIONS

Due to the increased risk of malnutrition and symptoms that can affect dietary intake in COVID-positive patients, and the economic conditions leading to increased rates of food insecurity, dietitians must be proactive in preventing and/or treating malnutrition through adequate protein and energy intake. Eating/drinking bans should not become permanent and dialysis centers should take precautions to allow intradialytic meals and oral nutrition supplement protocols to continue during the pandemic.

Anabolic Resistance of Muscle Protein Turnover Comes in Various Shapes and Sizes

Anabolic resistance is defined by a blunted stimulation of muscle protein synthesis rates (MPS) to common anabolic stimuli in skeletal muscle tissue such as dietary protein and exercise. Generally, MPS is the target of most exercise and feeding interventions as muscle protein breakdown rates seem to be less responsive to these stimuli. Ultimately, the blunted responsiveness of MPS to dietary protein and exercise underpins the loss of the amount and quality of skeletal muscle mass leading to decrements in physical performance in these populations. The increase of both habitual physical activity (including structured exercise that targets general fitness characteristics) and protein dense food ingestion are frontline strategies utilized to support muscle mass, performance, and health. In this paper, we discuss anabolic resistance as a common denominator underpinning muscle mass loss with aging, obesity, and other disease states. Namely, we discuss the fact that anabolic resistance exists as a dimmer switch, capable of varying from higher to lower levels of resistance, to the main anabolic stimuli of feeding and exercise depending on the population. Moreover, we review the evidence on whether increased physical activity and targeted exercise can be leveraged to restore the sensitivity of skeletal muscle tissue to dietary amino acids regardless of the population.

Frequency of Intradialytic Hypotension Events Do Not Increase with Oral Nutritional Supplementation during Hemodialysis Treatment: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare the effect of the use of a renal-specific oral nutritional supplement (RS-ONS) during hemodialysis sessions and the use of RS-ONS at home on the incidence of intradialytic hypotension.

METHODS

A single-center, 12-week, open-label, randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted. The intervention was a RN-ONS divided into two portions: 100 and 137 mL. The first portion was given after 1 hour of hemodialysis (HD) treatment, while the second portion was given 45 minutes before the end of HD. The research staff registered the baseline and final nutritional parameters and systolic arterial pressure (SAP) from the screen of the HD device during 36 HD sessions. Hypotension symptoms were also recorded every hour during each HD session. The nutritional and functional status was also assessed.

RESULTS

We registered a total of 16 hypotensive events during 1082 HD sessions: 9 were in patients supplemented at home (551 HD sessions) and 7 occurred in patients supplemented during HD P = .668. Incidence of intradialytic hypotension (IH) during 1082 HD sessions was 1.4%. The total malnutrition inflammation score (MIS) decreased in both groups (P < .01), and the percentage of cachexia improved in the supplemented-during-HD group (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

In this randomized controlled trial, intradialytic hypotension events did not increase with the RS-ONS during HD treatment. This strategy appears to be a safe anabolic nutritional strategy for the prevention of PEW, selecting stable patients and administering a fractioned volume of the supplement after the first hour of HD treatment. More studies with larger samples size are required to confirm these findings.

The modulating effect of dietary protein intake on mortality in long-term hemodialysis patients: A nationwide population-based study

AIMS OF THE STUDY

A high prevalence of protein-energy wasting and malnutrition among uremic patients is associated with an increase in morbidity and mortality. We aimed to investigate the modulating effect of daily dietary protein intake (DPI) evaluated by normalised protein catabolic rate (nPCR) on mortality in long-term haemodialysis (HD) patient from a nationwide population-based study.

METHODS USED TO CONDUCT THE STUDY

By Taiwan Renal Registry Data System between 2005 and 2012, we divided the long-term HD patients into average nPCR < 1.2 and nPCR ≥ 1.2 groups according to the current guideline. The relation of nPCR with three-year all-cause and cardiovascular (CV) mortality were evaluated. The cox regression method for predicted mortality by nPCR was used.

RESULTS OF THE STUDY

Among 88 330 HD patients, 58 122 (65.8%) patients were in average nPCR < 1.2 group and 30 208 (34.2%) in average nPCR ≥ 1.2 group. Both all-cause and cardiovascular (CV) mortality risks were increased in nPCR < 1.2 group after adjusting for demographics and laboratories cofactors in our multivariate cox regression model. Patients with nPCR < 1.2 and albumin ≥ 3.7 had a higher adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) for all-cause and CV mortality (1.16 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.07-1.25, P < .001]; 1.15 [95% CI: 1.02-1.31, P = .03], respectively), compared with the reference group with nPCR ≥ 1.2 and albumin ≥ 3.7. Interestingly, there was no difference in mortality risk between low DPI subgroup (nPCR < 1.2 and Alb < 3.7) and the reference group (nPCR ≥ 1.2 and Alb < 3.7). Further stratification analysis revealed that low DPI subgroup (nPCR < 1.2, Alb ≥ 3.7 and TC ≥ 150) had an increased risk of both all-cause and CV mortality (aHR 1.14 [95% CI: 1.04-1.25, P = .005]; aHR 1.17 [95% CI: 1.02-1.35, P = .026], respectively).

CONCLUSIONS DRAWN FROM THE STUDY

Low DPI (as presented by nPCR) independently correlated with all-cause and CV mortality among HD patients. Mortality risks were higher in low DPI patients even with normoalbuminaemia and non-hypocholesterolaemia. Further investigations on the importance of increasing DPI in HD patients is warranted.

Randomised controlled trial of a smartphone application-based dietary self-management program on haemodialysis patients

Aims and objectives

To develop a smartphone application‐based dietary self‐management program for haemodialysis patients and to examine its effects on biochemical indicators, self‐efficacy and quality of life.

Background

Lack of dietary management in haemodialysis patients can lead to serious complications such as oedema, hyponatremia, hyperkalaemia, hypertension, uraemia and eventually death; however, studies using smartphone applications for dietary self‐management in haemodialysis patients are rare.

Design

A prospective, single‐blind, randomised, controlled design with repeated measures was followed with 75 haemodialysis patients at a haemodialysis centre. Data were collected from 10 January 2017–6 May 2018. The study applied the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials statement.

Methods

The 8‐week smartphone application‐based dietary self‐management program was developed through collaboration with a haemodialysis equipment company. The experimental group took this program while the control group took an 8‐week general program. Study variables were serum phosphorus, potassium and albumin, self‐efficacy and quality of life. They were measured at pretest, and 8 weeks and 12 weeks after the programs, and analysed using two‐way repeated measures analysis of variance.

Findings

The smartphone application‐based program significantly improved serum phosphorus, potassium, self‐efficacy and quality of life over time compared with the general program. There was no significant difference in albumin level changes between the groups.

Conclusions

The smartphone application‐based dietary self‐management program is an opportune and effective nursing intervention to lower serum phosphorus and potassium levels in haemodialysis patients over time. Trial registration was performed on www.cris.nih.go.kr (KCT0005366).

Relevance to clinical practice

Haemodialysis patients can easily use the smartphone application to manage their diet anytime and anywhere. They can get real‐time feedback and solutions to prevent haemodialysis complications. Nurses can provide tailored high‐quality care based on an individual's lifelog data from the smartphone application.

Effectiveness of renal-specific oral nutritional supplements compared with diet counseling in malnourished hemodialysis patients

BACKGROUND

Malnutrition is highly prevalent and a consequence of inflammation and related comorbidities among patients on maintenance hemodialysis. Oral nutritional supplementation (ONS) is recommended for malnourished patients with kidney failure. The study aimed to evaluate renal-specific oral nutrition (ONCE dialyze) supplement on nutritional status in patients on hemodialysis.

METHODS

Patients were randomized into 3 groups; treatment groups received 370 kcal/day of ONCE Dialyze (N = 26) or 370 kcal/day of NEPRO (N = 30) for 30 days. The control group (N = 24) received no intervention. All patients were counseled by the same registered dietitian during the study. The nutritional status was evaluated using malnutrition inflammation score (MIS) assessment, body compositions, serum albumin and pre-albumin levels at baseline and 30 days.

RESULTS

Eighty patients were analyzed with mean age of 57.2 ± 15.9 years. The intervention group exhibited significant improvements in energy, protein, fat, fiber and magnesium intake by dietary interview compared with the control group. Percentage of changes in MIS was - 29.0% (95% CI - 40.5 to - 17.4), - 23.9% (95% CI - 37.2 to - 10.6) and 12.1% (95% CI - 19.2 to 43.4) for the ONCE dialyze, NEPRO and control groups, respectively (overall P = 0.006). Percentage of changes in serum albumin was 5.3% (95% CI 1.9-8.7), 3.3% (95% CI - 0.1 to 6.7) and - 0.8% (95% CI - 4.3 to 2.7) for the ONCE dialyze, NEPRO, and control groups, respectively (overall P = 0.039; P = 0.043 for ONCE dialyze vs. control). No serious adverse effects were reported in any group.

CONCLUSION

Dietary advice combined with ONS especially ONCE dialyze was associated with improved MIS, serum albumin, dietary energy and macronutrient intake among patients with kidney failure on maintenance hemodialysis.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

TCTR20200801001.

Uremic Sarcopenia and Its Possible Nutritional Approach

Uremic sarcopenia is a frequent condition present in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients and is characterized by reduced muscle mass, muscle strength and physical performance. Uremic sarcopenia is related to an increased risk of hospitalization and all-causes mortality. This pathological condition is caused not only by advanced age but also by others factors typical of CKD patients such as metabolic acidosis, hemodialysis therapy, low-grade inflammatory status and inadequate protein-energy intake. Currently, treatments available to ameliorate uremic sarcopenia include nutritional therapy (oral nutritional supplement, inter/intradialytic parenteral nutrition, enteral nutrition, high protein and fiber diet and percutaneous endoscopic gastrectomy) and a personalized program of physical activity. The aim of this review is to analyze the possible benefits induced by nutritional therapy alone or in combination with a personalized program of physical activity, on onset and/or progression of uremic sarcopenia.

Dietary protein interventions to improve nutritional status in end-stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Poor nutritional status is prevalent among end-stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis. Chronic hemodialysis patients show an accelerated decline in skeletal muscle mass and strength, which is associated with higher mortality rates and a reduced quality of life. The current review aims to summarize recent advances regarding underlying causes of muscle loss and interventions that support muscle mass maintenance in patients with chronic hemodialysis.

RECENT FINDINGS

Muscle maintenance in chronic hemodialysis patients is compromised by low dietary protein intake levels, anabolic resistance of skeletal muscle tissue, sedentary behavior, and amino acid removal during hemodialysis. Studies assessing the effect of increased protein intake on nutritional status generally show beneficial results, especially in hypoalbuminemic chronic hemodialysis patients. The muscle protein synthetic response following protein ingestion in chronic hemodialysis patients may be enhanced through incorporation of structured physical activity and/or concurrent ketoacid ingestion.

SUMMARY

A coordinated program that combines nutritional and physical activity interventions is likely required to attenuate the decline in muscle mass and strength of chronic hemodialysis patients. Nephrologists, dieticians, and exercise specialists should collaborate closely to establish guidelines regarding the appropriate quantity and timing of protein ingestion. In addition, they should provide tailored nutritional and physical activity interventions for chronic hemodialysis patients (see video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, Video abstract, http://links.lww.com/COCN/A14).

Development of muffins as dialysis snacks for patients undergoing hemodialysis: results of chemical composition and sensory analysis

Objective

This study aimed to develop two non-industrial food products as financially accessible options to prevent and treat malnutrition in hemodialysis (HD) patients. These food products were developed and intended for use as dialysis snacks.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional and multi-step study. First, 183 adult HD patients (55 ± 14 years; 50.8% males), replied to a questionnaire with their food preferences regarding taste (salty, sweet, bitter, sour) and consistency (liquid, solid, pasty) for a dialysis snack. Most patients preferred a food product with a solid consistency (90%) and a salty flavor (81.4%). Second, three muffin formulations of fine herbs were developed; one enriched with whey protein concentrate (WPC), a second with textured soy protein (TSP) and a third standard formulation without protein for comparison with the protein-enriched muffins, for which the chemical and nutritional compositions were analyzed. In the third step, 60 patients on HD (61 ± 15 years; 53% males) were enrolled in a sensory analysis by applying a 9-point structured hedonic scale, ranging from “extremely liked” (score 9) to “extremely disliked” (score 1).

Results

When compared with the standard formulation, the formulations enriched with WPC and TSP protein had a significantly higher amount of protein/serving (Standard: 5.9 ± 0.3 g vs WPC: 14.5 ± 0.9 g and TSP 10.8 ± 0.7 g; P < 0.05) but a lower amount of carbohydrate (Standard: 13.1 ± 2.2 g vs WPC: 5.6 ± 0.8 g and TSP 6.0 ± 1.2 g vs; P < 0.05). The mineral content/serving of the protein-enriched muffins was low in phosphorus (50 mg) and sodium (180 mg). The potassium content/serving was moderate for the WPC muffin (225.2 mg) and low for the TSP muffin (107.9 mg). The acceptability index (AI) for the enriched protein muffins was higher than 70% and similar to the standard formulation.

Conclusion

The muffins with fine herbs and enriched with protein were well-accepted by all patients and appropriate to serve as dialysis snacks for HD patients.

Impacts of admission serum albumin levels on short-term and long-term mortality in hospitalized patients

AIM

The aim of this study is to assess the association between admission serum albumin and short- and long-term mortality in all hospitalized patients.

DESIGN

A single-center cohort study.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of all adult hospitalized patients at a tertiary referral hospital between January 2009 and December 2013 were analysed. Admission serum albumin was stratified into six groups: ≤2.4, 2.5-2.9, 3.0-3.4, 3.5-3.9, 4.0-4.4 and ≥4.5 g/dl. The outcomes of interest were in-hospital mortality, length of hospital stay and 1-year mortality. Serum albumin of 4-4.4 g/dl was selected as a reference group for outcome comparison.

RESULTS

A total of 14 075 patients were studied. Admission serum albumin of ≥4.5 g/dl had the lowest in-hospital and 1-year mortality with progressively increased in-hospital mortality observed with decreased admission serum albumin. In adjusted analysis, compared with serum albumin of 4.0-4.4 g/dl, serum albumin of ≤2.4, 2.5-2.9, 3.0-3.4 and 3.5-3.9 were significantly associated with increased in-hospital and 1-year mortality. In contrast, serum albumin of ≥4.5 g/dl was significantly associated with lower 1-year mortality but not in-hospital mortality. Admission serum albumin <4.0 g/dl was significantly associated with a prolonged hospital stay, while admission serum albumin of ≥4.5 g/dl was significantly associated with shorter hospital stay, compared with serum albumin of 4.0-4.4 g/dl.

CONCLUSION

Low albumin level at admission was progressively associated with increased short- and long-term mortality in all hospitalized patients even when albumin level was considered in normal range.

Intradialytic Nutrition and Hemodialysis Prescriptions: A Personalized Stepwise Approach

Dialysis and nutrition are two sides of the same coin—dialysis depurates metabolic waste that is typically produced by food intake. Hence, dietetic restrictions are commonly imposed in order to limit potassium and phosphate and avoid fluid overload. Conversely, malnutrition is a major challenge and, albeit to differing degrees, all nutritional markers are associated with survival. Dialysis-related malnutrition has a multifactorial origin related to uremic syndrome and comorbidities but also to dialysis treatment. Both an insufficient dialysis dose and excessive removal are contributing factors. It is thus not surprising that dialysis alone, without proper nutritional management, often fails to be effective in combatting malnutrition. While composite indexes can be used to identify patients with poor prognosis, none is fully satisfactory, and the definitions of malnutrition and protein energy wasting are still controversial. Furthermore, most nutritional markers and interventions were assessed in hemodialysis patients, while hemodiafiltration and peritoneal dialysis have been less extensively studied. The significant loss of albumin in these two dialysis modalities makes it extremely difficult to interpret common markers and scores. Despite these problems, hemodialysis sessions represent a valuable opportunity to monitor nutritional status and prescribe nutritional interventions, and several approaches have been tried. In this concept paper, we review the current evidence on intradialytic nutrition and propose an algorithm for adapting nutritional interventions to individual patients.

Effect of Oral Nutritional Supplementation With and Without Exercise on Nutritional Status and Physical Function of Adult Hemodialysis Patients: A Parallel Controlled Clinical Trial (AVANTE-HEMO Study)

OBJECTIVE

Protein energy wasting affects the nutritional status (NS) and physical function (PF) of dialysis patients. Among the different anabolic strategies to improve NS and PF, oral nutritional supplementation (ONS) and resistance exercise (RE) or aerobic exercise (AE) have been shown to be effective. Nevertheless, the combination of both anabolic strategies has not been completely evaluated. The aim of this study is to assess the effect of exercise combined with ONS versus ONS without exercise during hemodialysis sessions on PF and NS indicators.

METHODS

Young hemodialysis patients (29 ± 9.3 years) with predominantly unknown causes of renal disease (80%) were divided into the following 3 groups during a period of 12 weeks: (1) ONS (n = 15), (2) ONS + RE (n = 15), and (3) ONS + AE (n = 15). Anthropometric, biochemical, PF, and quality of life measurements were recorded at baseline and after 3 months. Repeated measures analysis of variance and effect sizes (Cohen's d) were used to assess the effect of exercise and nutrition (ISRCTN registry 10251828).

RESULTS

At the completion of the study, the ONS and ONS + RE groups exhibited statistically significant increases in body weight, body mass index, and in the percentage of fat mass (P < .05); the greatest effect sizes were observed in the ONS + RE group (d = 0.30 for body weight, d = 0.63 for body mass index, and d = 0.90 for the percentage of fat mass). Groups with RE and AE had statistically significant increases and large effect sizes in the six-minute walk test (RE: d = 0.94, P = .02; AE: d = 1.11, P = .03), sit-to-stand test (RE: d = 0.81, P = .041; AE: d = 1.20, P = .002), timed up and go test (RE: d = 1.04, P = .036; AE: d = 1.6, P = .000), and muscle strength (RE: d = 1.01, P = .000; AE: d = 0.60, P = .003). Regarding quality of life, the ONS + RE group had more areas of improvement at the end of the study, followed by the ONS + AE group. No statistically significant differences were found in the repeated measures ANOVA.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of exercise with ONS had larger effects on PF than on ONS alone. Further studies to examine the impact of exercise on the effect of oral nutritional supplementation in dialysis patients are indicated.

Results from the randomized controlled IHOPE trial suggest no effects of oral protein supplementation and exercise training on physical function in hemodialysis patients

Few long-term studies have assessed whether changes in both diet and exercise can improve the health and quality of life (QOL) of hemodialysis (HD) patients. Here we examined whether 12 months of intradialytic protein supplementation and endurance exercise improves physical function, risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), and QOL in HD patients in a randomized controlled trial (RCT). A total of 138 HD patients (average age 58 years) were assigned for 12 months to control, intradialytic protein, or protein plus exercise groups. The protein and protein plus exercise groups consumed an oral protein supplement (30 grams of whey) three days/week during dialysis. The protein plus exercise group cycled for 30-45 minutes during dialysis treatment. The primary outcome was change in physical function at 12 months, assessed by a shuttle walk test. Secondary outcomes included arterial stiffness, blood pressure, body composition, muscle strength, markers of nutritional status, and QOL. Assessments were conducted at baseline, 6 and 12 months. In total, 101 patients completed the intervention. There were no significant differences between groups in shuttle walk test performance from baseline to 12 months. There were trends for improvements in some secondary measures of physical function and strength in the protein and protein plus exercise groups at six or 12 months, but these did not reach statistical significance. Thus, our trial did not demonstrate significant improvements in markers of physical function, risk of CVD or QOL after one year of intradialytic oral OPS and aerobic exercise training. More comprehensive lifestyle management may be needed to uncover robust improvements in the health and QOL of HD patients.

Pilot Study of the Effects of High-Protein Meals During Hemodialysis on Intradialytic Hypotension in Patients Undergoing Maintenance Hemodialysis

OBJECTIVE

Patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) have high protein and energy requirements, and protein-energy wasting is common and associated with poor outcomes. Eating during dialysis may improve nutritional status by counteracting the catabolic effects of HD treatment; but eating during HD may be discouraged because of concerns of postprandial hypotension. However, little data are available to support this practice. In this study, we hypothesized that high-protein meals during HD do not lead to symptomatic intradialytic hypotension events.

DESIGN

A 9-week, nonrandomized, parallel-arm study.

SETTING

A single in-center HD clinic.

SUBJECTS

Eighteen patients undergoing HD from 2 shifts completed the study. Patients were aged 62 ± 16 years with dialysis vintage of 3.4 ± 2.6 years.

INTERVENTION

Patients in the intervention group (n = 9) undergoing HD received meals of ∼30 g protein and ∼1/3 daily recommended intakes of sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and fluid during dialysis for 25 consecutive HD sessions. The control group (n = 9) completed all aspects of the study including a visit by study personnel but were not given meals. The 25 consecutive sessions before the start of the intervention/control phase were used as a baseline comparison for each patient.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Symptomatic hypotension event frequency.

RESULTS

In the intervention arm, there were 19 symptomatic hypotension events in 5 patients prestudy and 18 events in 6 patients during the study. In the control arm, there were 16 events in 7 patients prestudy and 13 events in 7 patients during the study. Change in the frequency of symptomatic hypotension events from prestudy to during study was not different between groups (P = .71). There was no effect of meals on nutritional status, but patients reported positive attitudes toward receiving meals during dialysis.

CONCLUSION

High-protein meals during HD did not increase symptomatic hypotension events. Larger, longer term studies are needed to confirm these results and evaluate whether high-protein meals on dialysis benefit nutritional status and clinical outcomes.