Nutritional management of individuals with SARS-CoV-2 infection during rehabilitation

Journal of Frailty, Sarcopenia and Falls, 2022 · DOI: 10.22540/JFSF-07-088 · Published: June 1, 2022

COVID-19 Nutrition & Dietetics Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

COVID-19 patients are at high risk of malnutrition and muscle loss due to various factors like reduced intake, increased energy needs, and the effects of the virus itself. Therefore, it's important to regularly check their nutritional status upon entering rehabilitation. Malnutrition and muscle loss can lead to weakened immunity, breathing problems, difficulty swallowing, and poor resilience to stress. Meeting increased energy and protein needs through personalized diet plans, food enhancements, and supplements is recommended. A well-rounded 'food first' approach, with food enrichment and supplements, can help address poor nutrition, especially for those who struggle to consume enough high-protein and energy-rich foods, such as the elderly or those recovering from intensive care.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

COVID-19 patients in rehabilitation setting

Evidence Level

Narrative Review

Key Findings

1
Malnutrition and sarcopenia are common in COVID-19 patients due to factors like inactivity, comorbidities, and the body's inflammatory response.
2
COVID-19 patients have increased energy and protein needs, requiring personalized nutritional support including education, food fortification, and oral nutritional supplements.
3
Regular nutritional screening is crucial to identify and manage malnutrition in COVID-19 patients during rehabilitation, especially for those with long-term conditions or over 65 years old.

Research Summary

COVID-19 patients are susceptible to malnutrition and sarcopenia due to factors such as inactivity, comorbidities, cytokine response, nutritional deficiencies, and treatment side effects. Malnutrition and sarcopenia in COVID-19 patients can result in diminished immune potential, lower respiratory function, swallowing dysfunction, and reduced resilience to metabolic stress. Nutritional rehabilitation, including personalized dietary advice, food fortification, and oral nutritional supplements, is crucial for improving outcomes in COVID-19 patients undergoing rehabilitation.

Practical Implications

Regular Nutritional Screening

Implement routine screening for malnutrition and sarcopenia in COVID-19 patients admitted to rehabilitation settings, using validated tools.

Personalized Nutrition Plans

Develop individualized dietary plans that address increased energy and protein needs, considering patient preferences and symptoms like loss of taste or swallowing difficulties.

Multimodal Nutritional Support

Combine dietary education, food fortification, and oral nutritional supplements to ensure adequate nutrient intake, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly and those recovering from ICU stays.

Study Limitations

1
Lack of evidence about nutrition status and outcomes for COVID-19 patients at the rehabilitation setting
2
Social distancing inherent in the management of COVID-19 patients may prohibit clinicians from screening
3
Despite efforts for aggressive nutritional support during prolonged ICU stay, the implications of the inflammation on nutritional status are present

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to COVID-19