Nutritional Management in Liver Cirrhosis: A Combined Systematic Review and Observational Study

Abstract

Background: Liver cirrhosis is a complex and chronic pathology with the potential to impact a number of factors, including the patient’s health, nutritional status and diet. Proper nutritional intake plays an essential role alongside the necessary medical and recovery treatments. Methods: This study was conducted on a group that included patients of varying age demographics. They were required to undertake a 24 h food recall as well as two other questionnaires (CNAQ and CLDQ-NASH) that reported the level of appetite and nutrition and other aspects that focused on the patient’s general health and quality of life, respectively. Results: The results of the study indicated the presence of reduced appetite and a decrease in quality of life, as reported by questionnaire scores of less than 28 points for appetite and less than 4 points for quality of life. The 24 h dietary recalls revealed that the majority of patients exhibited a preference for meals comprising red and processed meats and traditional foods such as soups and animal foods and a low consumption of white meat, fish, legumes and fiber. Conclusions: The study’s findings reveal an imbalance in the patients’ nutritional intake and underscore the critical importance of nutritional support for patients with liver cirrhosis. However, further research is needed in this regard to determine the factors leading to nutritional deficiencies and the causes leading to refusal of nutritional intervention within the management of this disease.