Malnutrition and Nutritional Support in Alcoholic Liver Disease: a Review

Curr Gastroenterol Rep. 2016 Dec;18(12):65. doi: 10.1007/s11894-016-0539-4.

Abstract

Malnutrition is associated with alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and related complications such as hepatic encephalopathy and increased rate of infections. Avoidance of prolonged fasting and overly restrictive diets is important to avoid poor nutrition. Adequate intake of calories, protein, and micronutrients via frequent small meals and evening supplements and/or enteral and parenteral nutrition when indicated has been associated with reduced mortality and morbidity in patients with ALD. Modification of protein/fat sources and composition in addition to probiotic supplementation are promising interventions for decreased progression of ALD and its complications.

Keywords: Alcoholic liver disease; Diet; Enteral nutrition; Nutrition; Parenteral nutrition.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Energy Metabolism / physiology
  • Enteral Nutrition / methods
  • Humans
  • Liver Diseases, Alcoholic / complications*
  • Liver Diseases, Alcoholic / physiopathology
  • Liver Diseases, Alcoholic / therapy*
  • Malnutrition / etiology*
  • Malnutrition / physiopathology
  • Malnutrition / therapy*
  • Nutritional Status
  • Nutritional Support / methods*
  • Parenteral Nutrition