Nutrition in the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers in stroke patients

Stroke is one of the most important causes of mortality and disability of the population worldwide. In 16–20% of patients with acute stroke at admission, during hospitalization and rehabilitation, protein-energy deficiency, as well as micronutrient insufficiency is observed, which is associated with an unfavorable prognosis and the development of pressure ulcers. The widespread use of high-calorie mixtures for oral or probe enteral nutrition for such patients, containing increased amounts of protein, arginine, vitamins A, E, C and minerals (zinc and selenium) of an antioxidant orientation, can have a positive effect on the healing of pressure ulcers. The inclusion of specialized therapeutic mixtures in diet therapy can also potentially reduce the risk of developing pressure ulcers.