From the Guidelines
For a protein gap of 4.7, the next step should be to increase daily protein intake to 1.2–1.5 g/kg, considering the patient may have acute or chronic diseases, as suggested by the most recent study in 2024 1. To address the protein gap, it's essential to understand the nutritional status and dietary intake of the individual. The study published in Diabetes Care in 2024 1 provides guidance on nutrient intake and physical activity, emphasizing the importance of daily protein intake.
- Key points to consider:
- Daily protein intake of 1.0–1.2 g/kg for healthy individuals, and 1.2–1.5 g/kg for those with acute or chronic diseases 1
- Protein intake greater than 1.5 g/kg/day may be necessary for individuals with cachexia or sarcopenia 1
- Energy- and protein-dense nutrition may not improve food consumption or decrease malnutrition, but a nutrient-dense diet can help avoid complications 1 Given the protein gap of 4.7, it's crucial to focus on increasing protein intake while maintaining a balanced diet.
- Additional considerations:
- Adequate fluid intake to prevent constipation and fecal impaction 1
- Sodium consumption less than 2,300 mg/day, considering taste, cost, and availability 1
- Dietary patterns with high-quality nutrients, such as the Mediterranean or DASH diet, can improve weight and blood pressure management, and help prevent complications 1 By prioritizing protein intake and overall nutritional status, individuals with a protein gap of 4.7 can work towards improving their health outcomes, as suggested by the latest evidence 1.
From the Research
Protein Gap of 4.7: Next Steps
To address a protein gap of 4.7, several strategies can be considered based on existing research:
- Oral Nutrition Supplements: Studies such as 2 and 3 suggest that oral nutrition supplements, especially high-protein ones, can improve protein intake without decreasing usual food intake. This can be a viable option for individuals struggling to meet their protein requirements through diet alone.
- Dietary Assessment and Advice: As mentioned in 4, Health and Care Professions Council-registered dietitians can calculate nutritional requirements and determine the best approach to meet any deficits. This personalized approach can help in addressing the protein gap effectively.
- Food First Approach: Before progressing to supplements, a 'food first' approach, as discussed in 4, can often result in weight gain without the need for prescribed supplements. Dietary modifications and advice can help patients regain weight and improve their nutritional status.
- Specialized Nutritional Interventions: For specific conditions like gastroparesis, as discussed in 5, modifying food composition, consistency, and volume, or using liquid meals and oral nutrition supplements, can be considered based on the patient's needs and abilities.
- Monitoring and Adjustment: Continuous monitoring of protein intake and adjustment of the nutritional plan as necessary is crucial. This might involve regular assessments by healthcare professionals to ensure that the patient is meeting their protein requirements and to make any necessary adjustments to their diet or supplement regimen.