The Effect of Oral Nutritional Supplement on Nutritional Status of Hemodialysis Patients in a Military Hospital

Background and Aim: Malnutrition is a common problem for hemodialysis patients, leading to reduced quality of life, increased hospitalization, and increased mortality. Evaluation of nutritional status is one of the main determinants of the clinical status. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of oral nutritional supplements (Iso Whey) on the nutritional status of hemodialysis patients. Methods: In this clinical trial, 44 hemodialysis patients during random allocation divided into two Iso-whey and control groups. In intervention groups, Iso Whey protein powder was consumed for two months. The control group continued their routine diet. In all groups, before and after the intervention, nutritional status was evaluated based on Dialysis Malnutrition Score (DMS) and Malnutrition-Inflammation Score (MIS) scale. Results: Both groups were matched in demographic variables and nutritional status before intervention (P>0.05). After the intervention, there was a significant difference between the groups in nutritional status based on DMS and MIS scale (P<0.05). Conclusion: The findings showed that the intake of oral nutritional supplements resulted in improving hemodialysis patients' nutritional status. Therefore, using oral nutritional supplements under the supervision of a nutritionist with an educational program and regular assessment of nutritional status can be recommended to improve the nutritional status.