Assessment of Nutritional Intake in Patients With Kidney Failure Treated by Haemodialysis on Dialysis and Non-dialysis Days

Abstract

Introduction/Aims/ObjectiveInadequate nutritional intake in haemodialysis (HD) patients increases the risk of muscle wasting, nutrient deficiencies, leading to an increased risk of additional morbidity and mortality. We aimed to assess nutritional intake on the dialysis and non-dialysis day of patients established on HD. MethodsWe employed a two-day dietary record, one on the day of dialysis and one on the non-dialysis day, and then determined nutritional intake using the Nutritics software. Muscle strength was assessed by hand grip strength (HGS) and body composition determined using multifrequency bioelectrical impedance recorded post-dialysis. ResultsWe recruited 51 established HD patients dialysing between May-July 2022, mean age 60±15 years, 52.9% male, and 51% diabetic. Only 25% achieved the calorie and protein intake recommended by Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI). Most patients had inadequate consumtion of fibre (96%), calcium (86%), iron (80%), zinc (82%), selenium (92%), folate (82%), vitamin A (88%), and (100%) vitamin D. On the other hand, the great majority followed the restriction guidelines for potassium (96%), phosphorus (86%), and sodium (84%), repectively. However, consumption was greater for potassium (P=0.007), phosphorus (P=0.015), and zinc (P=0.032) on non-dialysis vs dialysis days, but there was no difference in protein or calorie intake between days. ConclusionOur results suggest that many of our HD patients do not achieve the recommended nutritional targets. Patient compliance with restricting sodium, potassium and phosphate limits protein and calorie intake. HD patients are at increased risk of sarcopenia, so failure to achieve dietary protein intake will further increase this risk.