Nutrients

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9 pages, 390 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Enteral Nutrition by Nasogastric Tube in Adult Patients under Palliative Care: A Systematic Review

by Eduardo Sánchez-Sánchez, María Araceli Ruano-Álvarez, Jara Díaz-Jiménez, Antonio Jesús Díaz and Francisco Javier Ordonez

Nutrients 2021, 13(5), 1562; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13051562 - 6 May 2021

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 9440

Abstract

Nutritional management of patients under palliative care can lead to ethical issues, especially when Enteral Nutrition (EN) is prescribed by nasogastric tube (NGT). The aim of this review is to know the current status in the management of EN by NG tube in [...] Read more.

Nutritional management of patients under palliative care can lead to ethical issues, especially when Enteral Nutrition (EN) is prescribed by nasogastric tube (NGT). The aim of this review is to know the current status in the management of EN by NG tube in patients under palliative care, and its effect in their wellbeing and quality of life. The following databases were used: PubMed, Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, Scielo, Embase and Medline. After inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, as well as different qualities screening, a total of three entries were used, published between 2015 and 2020. In total, 403 articles were identified initially, from which three were selected for this review. The use of NGT caused fewer diarrhea episodes and more restrictions than the group that did not use NG tubes. Furthermore, the use of tubes increased attendances to the emergency department, although there was no contrast between NGT and PEG devices. No statistical difference was found between use of tubes (NGT and PEG) or no use, with respect to the treatment of symptoms, level of comfort, and satisfaction at the end of life. Nevertheless, it improved hospital survival compared with other procedures, and differences were found in hospital stays in relation to the use of other probes or devices. Finally, there are not enough quality studies to provide evidence on improving the health status and quality of life of the use of EN through NGT in patients receiving palliative care. For this reason, decision making in this field must be carried out individually, weighing the benefits and damages that they can cause in the quality of life of the patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition: Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges)

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Review

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15 pages, 1231 KiB

Open AccessReview

Nutrition Concepts for the Treatment of Obesity in Adults

by Meike Wiechert and Christina Holzapfel

Nutrients 2022, 14(1), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14010169 - 30 Dec 2021

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 29009

Abstract

Obesity caused by a positive energy balance is a serious health burden. Studies have shown that obesity is the major risk factor for many diseases like type 2 diabetes mellitus, coronary heart diseases, or various types of cancer. Therefore, the prevention and treatment [...] Read more.

Obesity caused by a positive energy balance is a serious health burden. Studies have shown that obesity is the major risk factor for many diseases like type 2 diabetes mellitus, coronary heart diseases, or various types of cancer. Therefore, the prevention and treatment of increased body weight are key. Different evidence-based treatment approaches considering weight history, body mass index (BMI) category, and co-morbidities are available: lifestyle intervention, formula diet, drugs, and bariatric surgery. For all treatment approaches, behaviour change techniques, reduction in energy intake, and increasing energy expenditure are required. Self-monitoring of diet and physical activity provides an effective behaviour change technique for weight management. Digital tools increase engagement rates for self-monitoring and have the potential to improve weight management. The objective of this narrative review is to summarize current available treatment approaches for obesity, to provide a selective overview of nutrition trends, and to give a scientific viewpoint for various nutrition concepts for weight loss. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition: Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges)

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12 pages, 5222 KiB

Open AccessReview

Relationship between Dietary Patterns with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Erectile Dysfunction: A Collaborative Review

by Giorgio Ivan Russo, Giuseppe Broggi, Andrea Cocci, Paolo Capogrosso, Marco Falcone, Ioannis Sokolakis, Murat Gül, Rosario Caltabiano and Marina Di Mauro

Nutrients 2021, 13(11), 4148; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13114148 - 19 Nov 2021

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 8539

Abstract

Interest in the role of dietary patterns has been consistently emerging in recent years due to much research that has documented the impact of metabolism on erectile dysfunction (ED) and/or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). We conducted a non-systematic review of English articles published [...] Read more.

Interest in the role of dietary patterns has been consistently emerging in recent years due to much research that has documented the impact of metabolism on erectile dysfunction (ED) and/or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). We conducted a non-systematic review of English articles published from 1964 to September 2021. The search terms were: (“dietary patterns” OR “diet”) AND/OR (“erectile dysfunction”) AND/OR (“benign prostatic hyperplasia”). In the present review, we have highlighted how the association between dietary patterns and two of the most frequent pathologies in urology, namely erectile dysfunction and benign prostatic hyperplasia, is present in the literature. The data suggested that a diet that is more adherent to the Mediterranean diet or that emphasizes the presence of vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, and fish or other sources of long-chain (n-3) fats, in addition to reduced content of red meat, may have a beneficial role on erectile function. At the same time, the same beneficial effects can be transferred to BPH as a result of the indirect regulatory effects on prostatic growth and smooth muscle tone, thus determining an improvement in symptoms. Certainly, in-depth studies and translational medicine are needed to confirm these encouraging data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition: Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges)

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22 pages, 1115 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Gluten-Free Diet for Celiac Disease and Beyond

by Bara Aljada, Ahmed Zohni and Wael El-Matary

Nutrients 2021, 13(11), 3993; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13113993 - 9 Nov 2021

Cited by 90 | Viewed by 30935

Abstract

The gluten-free diet (GFD) has gained popularity beyond its main medical indication as the treatment for gluten-induced immune-mediated disorders such as celiac disease (CD), dermatitis herpetiformis, gluten ataxia, wheat allergy, and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. However, the diet carries some disadvantages such as elevated [...] Read more.

The gluten-free diet (GFD) has gained popularity beyond its main medical indication as the treatment for gluten-induced immune-mediated disorders such as celiac disease (CD), dermatitis herpetiformis, gluten ataxia, wheat allergy, and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. However, the diet carries some disadvantages such as elevated costs, nutritional deficiencies, and social and psychological barriers. The present work aims to review indications, proven benefits, and adverse events of a gluten-free diet. Close follow-up with patients following the diet is recommended. More data is needed to assess the effectiveness of the diet in managing mental and cognitive disorders and to establish a connection between the brain and gluten. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition: Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges)

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14 pages, 1778 KiB

Open AccessReview

Diet in Intestinal Fibrosis: A Double-Edged Sword

by Rachel Marion-Letellier, Mathilde Leboutte, Asma Amamou, Maitreyi Raman, Guillaume Savoye and Subrata Ghosh

Nutrients 2021, 13(9), 3148; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13093148 - 9 Sep 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4408

Abstract

The natural history of inflammatory bowel diseases, especially Crohn’s disease, is frequently complicated by intestinal fibrosis. Because of the lack of effective treatments for intestinal fibrosis, there is an urgent need to develop new therapies. Factors promoting intestinal fibrosis are currently unclear, but [...] Read more.

The natural history of inflammatory bowel diseases, especially Crohn’s disease, is frequently complicated by intestinal fibrosis. Because of the lack of effective treatments for intestinal fibrosis, there is an urgent need to develop new therapies. Factors promoting intestinal fibrosis are currently unclear, but diet is a potential culprit. Diet may influence predisposition to develop intestinal fibrosis or alter its natural history by modification of both the host immune response and intestinal microbial composition. Few studies have documented the effects of dietary factors in modulating IBD-induced intestinal fibrosis. As the mechanisms behind fibrogenesis in the gut are believed to be broadly similar to those from extra-intestinal organs, it may be relevant to investigate which dietary components can inhibit or promote fibrosis factors such as myofibroblasts progenitor activation in other fibrotic diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition: Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges)

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26 pages, 1209 KiB

Open AccessReview

Nutrition in the Intensive Care Unit—A Narrative Review

by Aileen Hill, Gunnar Elke and Arved Weimann

Nutrients 2021, 13(8), 2851; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13082851 - 19 Aug 2021

Cited by 59 | Viewed by 33627

Abstract

Background: While consent exists, that nutritional status has prognostic impact in the critically ill, the optimal feeding strategy has been a matter of debate. Methods: Narrative review of the recent evidence and international guideline recommendations focusing on basic principles of nutrition in the [...] Read more.

Background: While consent exists, that nutritional status has prognostic impact in the critically ill, the optimal feeding strategy has been a matter of debate. Methods: Narrative review of the recent evidence and international guideline recommendations focusing on basic principles of nutrition in the ICU and the treatment of specific patient groups. Covered topics are: the importance and diagnosis of malnutrition in the ICU, the optimal timing and route of nutrition, energy and protein requirements, the supplementation of specific nutrients, as well as monitoring and complications of a Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT). Furthermore, this review summarizes the available evidence to optimize the MNT of patients grouped by primarily affected organ system. Results: Due to the considerable heterogeneity of the critically ill, MNT should be carefully adapted to the individual patient with special focus on phase of critical illness, metabolic tolerance, leading symptoms, and comorbidities. Conclusion: MNT in the ICU is complex and requiring an interdisciplinary approach and frequent reevaluation. The impact of personalized and disease-specific MNT on patient-centered clinical outcomes remains to be elucidated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition: Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges)

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24 pages, 15967 KiB

Open AccessReview

Malnutrition in Pediatric Chronic Cholestatic Disease: An Up-to-Date Overview

by Maria Tessitore, Eduardo Sorrentino, Giuseppe Schiano Di Cola, Angelo Colucci, Pietro Vajro and Claudia Mandato

Nutrients 2021, 13(8), 2785; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13082785 - 13 Aug 2021

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 9094

Abstract

Despite recent advances, the causes of and effective therapies for pediatric chronic cholestatic diseases remain elusive, and many patients progress to liver failure and need liver transplantation. Malnutrition is a common complication in these patients and is a well-recognized, tremendous challenge for the [...] Read more.

Despite recent advances, the causes of and effective therapies for pediatric chronic cholestatic diseases remain elusive, and many patients progress to liver failure and need liver transplantation. Malnutrition is a common complication in these patients and is a well-recognized, tremendous challenge for the clinician. We undertook a narrative review of both recent and relevant older literature, published during the last 20 years, for studies linking nutrition to pediatric chronic cholestasis. The collected data confirm that malnutrition and failure to thrive are associated with increased risks of morbidity and mortality, and they also affect the outcomes of liver transplantation, including long-term survival. Malnutrition in children with chronic liver disease is multifactorial and with multiple potential nutritional deficiencies. To improve life expectancy and the quality of life, patients require careful assessments and appropriate management of their nutritional statuses by multidisciplinary teams, which can identify and/or prevent specific deficiencies and initiate appropriate interventions. Solutions available for the clinical management of these children in general, as well as those directed to specific etiologies, are summarized. We particularly focus on fat-soluble vitamin deficiency and malnutrition due to fat malabsorption. Supplemental feeding, including medium-chain triglycerides, essential fatty acids, branched-chain amino acids, and the extra calories needed to overcome the consequences of anorexia and high energy requirements, is reviewed. Future studies should address the need for further improving commercially available and nutritionally complete infant milk formulae for the dietary management of this fragile category of patients. The aid of a specialist dietitian, educational training regarding nutritional guidelines for stakeholders, and improving family nutritional health literacy appear essential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition: Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges)

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20 pages, 1221 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Malnutrition in Older Adults—Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges

by Kristina Norman, Ulrike Haß and Matthias Pirlich

Nutrients 2021, 13(8), 2764; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13082764 - 12 Aug 2021

Cited by 390 | Viewed by 48901

Abstract

Malnutrition in older adults has been recognised as a challenging health concern associated with not only increased mortality and morbidity, but also with physical decline, which has wide ranging acute implications for activities of daily living and quality of life in general. Malnutrition [...] Read more.

Malnutrition in older adults has been recognised as a challenging health concern associated with not only increased mortality and morbidity, but also with physical decline, which has wide ranging acute implications for activities of daily living and quality of life in general. Malnutrition is common and may also contribute to the development of the geriatric syndromes in older adults. Malnutrition in the old is reflected by either involuntary weight loss or low body mass index, but hidden deficiencies such as micronutrient deficiencies are more difficult to assess and therefore frequently overlooked in the community-dwelling old. In developed countries, the most cited cause of malnutrition is disease, as both acute and chronic disorders have the potential to result in or aggravate malnutrition. Therefore, as higher age is one risk factor for developing disease, older adults have the highest risk of being at nutritional risk or becoming malnourished. However, the aetiology of malnutrition is complex and multifactorial, and the development of malnutrition in the old is most likely also facilitated by ageing processes. This comprehensive narrative review summarizes current evidence on the prevalence and determinants of malnutrition in old adults spanning from age-related changes to disease-associated risk factors, and outlines remaining challenges in the understanding, identification as well as treatment of malnutrition, which in some cases may include targeted supplementation of macro- and/or micronutrients, when diet alone is not sufficient to meet age-specific requirements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition: Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges)

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23 pages, 1059 KiB

Open AccessReview

Nutrition in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: Present Knowledge and Remaining Challenges

by Maria Letizia Petroni, Lucia Brodosi, Francesca Marchignoli, Anna Simona Sasdelli, Paolo Caraceni, Giulio Marchesini and Federico Ravaioli

Nutrients 2021, 13(8), 2748; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13082748 - 10 Aug 2021

Cited by 49 | Viewed by 23955

Abstract

Unhealthy behaviours, including diet and physical activity, coupled with genetic predisposition, drive type 2 diabetes (T2D) occurrence and severity; the present review aims to summarise the most recent nutritional approaches in T2D, outlining unmet needs. Guidelines consistently suggest reducing energy intake to counteract [...] Read more.

Unhealthy behaviours, including diet and physical activity, coupled with genetic predisposition, drive type 2 diabetes (T2D) occurrence and severity; the present review aims to summarise the most recent nutritional approaches in T2D, outlining unmet needs. Guidelines consistently suggest reducing energy intake to counteract the obesity epidemic, frequently resulting in sarcopenic obesity, a condition associated with poorer metabolic control and cardiovascular disease. Various dietary approaches have been proposed with largely similar results, with a preference for the Mediterranean diet and the best practice being the diet that patients feel confident of maintaining in the long term based on individual preferences. Patient adherence is indeed the pivotal factor for weight loss and long-term maintenance, requiring intensive lifestyle intervention. The consumption of nutritional supplements continues to increase even if international societies do not support their systematic use. Inositols and vitamin D supplementation, as well as micronutrients (zinc, chromium, magnesium) and pre/probiotics, result in modest improvement in insulin sensitivity, but their use is not systematically suggested. To reach the desired goals, patients should be actively involved in the collaborative development of a personalised meal plan associated with habitual physical activity, aiming at normal body weight and metabolic control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition: Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges)

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12 pages, 533 KiB

Open AccessReview

Oral Nutritional Supplements and Enteral Nutrition in Patients with Gastrointestinal Surgery

by Maria Wobith and Arved Weimann

Nutrients 2021, 13(8), 2655; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13082655 - 30 Jul 2021

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 11259

Abstract

Nowadays, patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery are following perioperative treatment in enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols. Although oral feeding is supposed not to be stopped perioperatively with respect to ERAS, malnourished patients and inadequate calorie intake are common. Malnutrition, even in overweight or [...] Read more.

Nowadays, patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery are following perioperative treatment in enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols. Although oral feeding is supposed not to be stopped perioperatively with respect to ERAS, malnourished patients and inadequate calorie intake are common. Malnutrition, even in overweight or obese patients, is often underestimated. Patients at metabolic risk have to be identified early to confirm the indication for nutritional therapy. The monitoring of nutritional status postoperatively has to be considered in the hospital and after discharge, especially after surgery in the upper gastrointestinal tract, as normal oral food intake is decreased for several months. The article gives an overview of the current concepts of perioperative enteral nutrition in patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition: Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges)

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11 pages, 1626 KiB

Open AccessReview

Endovascular Bariatric Surgery as Novel Minimally Invasive Technique for Weight Management in the Morbidly Obese: Review of the Literature

by Giuseppe Massimo Sangiorgi, Alberto Cereda, Nicola Porchetta, Daniela Benedetto, Andrea Matteucci, Michela Bonanni, Gaetano Chiricolo and Antonino De Lorenzo

Nutrients 2021, 13(8), 2541; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13082541 - 25 Jul 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3853

Abstract

Nowadays, obesity represents one of the most unresolved global pandemics, posing a critical health issue in developed countries. According to the World Health Organization, its prevalence has tripled since 1975, reaching a prevalence of 13% of the world population in 2016. Indeed, as [...] Read more.

Nowadays, obesity represents one of the most unresolved global pandemics, posing a critical health issue in developed countries. According to the World Health Organization, its prevalence has tripled since 1975, reaching a prevalence of 13% of the world population in 2016. Indeed, as obesity increases worldwide, novel strategies to fight this condition are of the utmost importance to reduce obese-related morbidity and overall mortality related to its complications. Early experimental and initial clinical data have suggested that endovascular bariatric surgery (EBS) may be a promising technique to reduce weight and hormonal imbalance in the obese population. Compared to open bariatric surgery and minimally invasive surgery (MIS), EBS is much less invasive, well tolerated, with a shorter recovery time, and is probably cost-saving. However, there are still several technical aspects to investigate before EBS can be routinely offered to all obese patients. Further prospective studies and eventually a randomized trial comparing open bariatric surgery vs. EBS are needed, powered for clinically relevant outcomes, and with adequate follow-up. Yet, EBS may already appear as an appealing alternative treatment for weight management and cardiovascular prevention in morbidly obese patients at high surgical risk. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition: Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges)

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17 pages, 1168 KiB

Open AccessReview

Impact of Dietary Factors on Brugada Syndrome and Long QT Syndrome

by Sara D’Imperio, Michelle M. Monasky, Emanuele Micaglio, Gabriele Negro and Carlo Pappone

Nutrients 2021, 13(8), 2482; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13082482 - 21 Jul 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 8150

Abstract

A healthy regime is fundamental for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). In inherited channelopathies, such as Brugada syndrome (BrS) and Long QT syndrome (LQTS), unfortunately, sudden cardiac death could be the first sign for patients affected by these syndromes. Several known factors [...] Read more.

A healthy regime is fundamental for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). In inherited channelopathies, such as Brugada syndrome (BrS) and Long QT syndrome (LQTS), unfortunately, sudden cardiac death could be the first sign for patients affected by these syndromes. Several known factors are used to stratify the risk of developing cardiac arrhythmias, although none are determinative. The risk factors can be affected by adjusting lifestyle habits, such as a particular diet, impacting the risk of arrhythmogenic events and mortality. To date, the importance of understanding the relationship between diet and inherited channelopathies has been underrated. Therefore, we describe herein the effects of dietary factors on the development of arrhythmia in patients affected by BrS and LQTS. Modifying the diet might not be enough to fully prevent arrhythmias, but it can help lower the risk. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition: Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges)

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23 pages, 856 KiB

Open AccessReview

Beyond the Paradigm of Weight Loss in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: From Pathophysiology to Novel Dietary Approaches

by Angelo Armandi and Jörn M. Schattenberg

Nutrients 2021, 13(6), 1977; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13061977 - 8 Jun 2021

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 8779

Abstract

Current treatment recommendations for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) rely heavily on lifestyle interventions. The Mediterranean diet and physical activity, aiming at weight loss, have shown good results in achieving an improvement of this liver disease. However, concerns related to compliance and food [...] Read more.

Current treatment recommendations for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) rely heavily on lifestyle interventions. The Mediterranean diet and physical activity, aiming at weight loss, have shown good results in achieving an improvement of this liver disease. However, concerns related to compliance and food accessibility limit the feasibility of this approach, and data on the long-term effects on liver-related outcomes are lacking. Insulin resistance is a central aspect in the pathophysiology of NAFLD; therefore, interventions aiming at the improvement of insulin sensitivity may be preferable. In this literature review, we provide a comprehensive summary of the available evidence on nutritional approaches in the management of NAFLD, involving low-calorie diets, isocaloric diets, and the novel schemes of intermittent fasting. In addition, we explore the harmful role of single nutrients on liver-specific key metabolic pathways, the role of gene susceptibility and microbiota, and behavioral aspects that may impact liver disease and are often underreported in clinical setting. At present, the high variability in terms of study populations and liver-specific outcomes within nutritional studies limits the generalizability of the results and highlights the urgent need of a tailored and standardized approach, as seen in regulatory trials in Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition: Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges)

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17 pages, 375 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Nutrition and Kidney Stone Disease

by Roswitha Siener

Nutrients 2021, 13(6), 1917; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13061917 - 3 Jun 2021

Cited by 180 | Viewed by 33379

Abstract

The prevalence of kidney stone disease is increasing worldwide. The recurrence rate of urinary stones is estimated to be up to 50%. Nephrolithiasis is associated with increased risk of chronic and end stage kidney disease. Diet composition is considered to play a crucial [...] Read more.

The prevalence of kidney stone disease is increasing worldwide. The recurrence rate of urinary stones is estimated to be up to 50%. Nephrolithiasis is associated with increased risk of chronic and end stage kidney disease. Diet composition is considered to play a crucial role in urinary stone formation. There is strong evidence that an inadequate fluid intake is the major dietary risk factor for urolithiasis. While the benefit of high fluid intake has been confirmed, the effect of different beverages, such as tap water, mineral water, fruit juices, soft drinks, tea and coffee, are debated. Other nutritional factors, including dietary protein, carbohydrates, oxalate, calcium and sodium chloride can also modulate the urinary risk profile and contribute to the risk of kidney stone formation. The assessment of nutritional risk factors is an essential component in the specific dietary therapy of kidney stone patients. An appropriate dietary intervention can contribute to the effective prevention of recurrent stones and reduce the burden of invasive surgical procedures for the treatment of urinary stone disease. This narrative review has intended to provide a comprehensive and updated overview on the role of nutrition and diet in kidney stone disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition: Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges)

14 pages, 327 KiB

Open AccessReview

Diet and Nutrition in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

by Ugo Cucinotta, Claudio Romano and Valeria Dipasquale

Nutrients 2021, 13(2), 655; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13020655 - 17 Feb 2021

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 7612

Abstract

Both genetic and environmental factors are involved in the onset of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In particular, diet composition is suspected to significantly contribute to IBD risk. In recent years, major interest has raised about the role of nutrition in disease pathogenesis and [...] Read more.

Both genetic and environmental factors are involved in the onset of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In particular, diet composition is suspected to significantly contribute to IBD risk. In recent years, major interest has raised about the role of nutrition in disease pathogenesis and course, and many studies have shown a clear link between diet composition and intestinal permeability impairment. Moreover, many IBD-related factors, such as poor dietary intake, nutrients loss and drugs interact with nutritional status, thus paving the way for the development of many therapeutic strategies in which nutrition represents the cornerstone, either as first-line therapy or as reversing nutritional deficiencies and malnutrition in IBD patients. Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) is the most rigorously supported dietary intervention for the treatment of Crohn’s Disease (CD), but is burdened by a low tolerability, especially in pediatric patients. Promising alternative regimens are represented by Crohn’s Disease Exclusion Diet (CDED), and other elimination diets, whose use is gradually spreading. The aim of the current paper is to provide a comprehensive and updated overview on the latest evidence about the role of nutrition and diet in pediatric IBD, focusing on the different nutritional interventions available for the management of the disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition: Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges)

19 pages, 1648 KiB

Open AccessReview

Malnutrition in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis

by Julia Traub, Lisa Reiss, Benard Aliwa and Vanessa Stadlbauer

Nutrients 2021, 13(2), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13020540 - 7 Feb 2021

Cited by 105 | Viewed by 18234

Abstract

Liver cirrhosis is an increasing public health threat worldwide. Malnutrition is a serious complication of cirrhosis and is associated with worse outcomes. With this review, we aim to describe the prevalence of malnutrition, pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets to treat malnutrition. [...] Read more.

Liver cirrhosis is an increasing public health threat worldwide. Malnutrition is a serious complication of cirrhosis and is associated with worse outcomes. With this review, we aim to describe the prevalence of malnutrition, pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets to treat malnutrition. Malnutrition is frequently underdiagnosed and occurs—depending on the screening methods used and patient populations studied—in 5–92% of patients. Decreased energy and protein intake, inflammation, malabsorption, altered nutrient metabolism, hypermetabolism, hormonal disturbances and gut microbiome dysbiosis can contribute to malnutrition. The stepwise diagnostic approach includes a rapid prescreen, the use of a specific screening tool, such as the Royal Free Hospital Nutritional Prioritizing Tool and a nutritional assessment by dieticians. General dietary measures—especially the timing of meals—oral nutritional supplements, micronutrient supplementation and the role of amino acids are discussed. In summary malnutrition in cirrhosis is common and needs more attention by health care professionals involved in the care of patients with cirrhosis. Screening and assessment for malnutrition should be carried out regularly in cirrhotic patients, ideally by a multidisciplinary team. Further research is needed to better clarify pathogenic mechanisms such as the role of the gut-liver-axis and to develop targeted therapeutic strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Nutrition: Recent Advances and Remaining Challenges)

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