Nutritional Assessment of Renal Transplant Recipients Using DEXA and Biochemical Parameters

Abstract

Conclusions: Serum albumin varies with diet, and is significantly higher among those eating a meat-based diet following transplant. Post-transplant mild obesity was prevalent in 62% of our study group. A higher fat content was associated with higher serum albumin levels, which may reflect a better nutritional status. Lower maintenance doses of prednisolone may improve the Albumin Levels. A further randomized controlled trial looking at the role of protein supplementation in vegetarians following renal transplantation as well as evaluating the effect of lowered prednisolone dose is warranted.