Malnutrition
MALNUTRITION AND HEART FAILURE
Patients with HF often describe difficulties eating a balanced diet due to nausea, abdominal bloating, early fullness after meals, and changes in taste and smell. Prior studies suggest that as many as half of patients with HF have nutritional intake that does not meet their health needs.
Micronutrient (vitamin and mineral) insufficiencies and inadequate protein intake are common. Micronutrition supplementation has not been shown to be beneficial in patients with HF to date, with the possible exceptions of omega-3 fatty acids and co-enzyme Q10.
Protein-calorie supplementation, for example with high protein shakes, has not been well-studied, but is often recommended in this setting. A recent study from Switzerland demonstrated the value of individualized malnutrition treatment for patients with HF during a hospitalization.
