The Evaluation of Nutritional Status and Eating Habits of Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract

This study was carried out on 100 hemodialysis patients (men n:57, women n:43) aged (mean ±SD) 50.2±14.8 years. The patients were divided into two groups according to Subjective Global Assessment as malnourished (54%) (37% mild, 17%> severe malnutrition) and well-nourished (46%). It was observed that anthropometric measurements such as mid-upper arm circumference, triceps, biceps, subscapular, suprailiac skinfold thickness measurements were lower in malnourished group than well-nourished group (p<0.05). Mean body mass index values were 25.7±4.73, 25.0±5.81 kg/m2 and 22.1 ±2.74, 22.7±4.57 kg/m2 fo r men and women of well-nourished and malnourished groups, respeetively. Percentages o f fa t mass were higher in well-nourished group (24.7%) than malnourished group (19.7%) in men (p<0.05). Body composition was assessed using caliper and bioelectrical impedance analysis. No difference was found betweerı two methods. Serum albumin concentration, which is used as a parameter o f evaluating nutriîional status, was similar in well-nourished and malnourished groups (4.3±0.3g/dL, 4.0±0.5g/dL, respectively). According to three consecutive days food consumption data, in general ali nutrient intakes were lower in malnourished group than well-nourished group, however, the differences for protein and zinc intakes were statistically signifıcant (p<0.05). It was concluded that instead of only one method, various parameters should be used together to assess the nutritional status in hemodialysis patients and monitoring of nutritional status is important for the prevention of malnutrition.