Effect of Oral Nutritional Supplements on Muscle Strength in Older Patients at Nutritional Risk Discharged With a Rehabilitation Plan
Effect of Oral Nutritional Supplements on Muscle Strength in Older Patients at Nutritional Risk Discharged With a Rehabilitation Plan
The purpose of the study is to investigate whether an extra intake of energy and protein in the form of nutritional drinks twice a day for 12 weeks can improve muscle strength, muscle mass, quality of life and the implementation of rehabilitation in elderly patients at nutritional risk who are discharged to municipal rehabilitation
The study is a single-blind randomised study where the subjects will be randomly divided into two groups. A group that must consume nutritional drinks in connection with their rehabilitation and a group that must do nothing extra. Based on a statistical power calculation, we will include a total of 124 patients.
In connection with the experiment, different data will be collected three times, in connection with the discharge from the hospital, after 6 weeks via the telephone and after 12 weeks. During a home visit. Here, various questionnaires will have to be answered and data on muscle strength and muscle mass will be collected. Further CRP, vitamin D status and EPA/DHA content in blood will be assessed.
In addition, data is collected from the patient's medical record about e.g. readmissions
Inclusion Criteria:
Men and women aged ≥ 65 years old
Independent stand function
Exclusion Criteria:
Active cancer
Renal insufficiency (eGFR < 27 mL/min/1.73m2)
Cognitive impairment (not able to comprehend the purpose of the study/give informed consent)
Terminal disease
Exclusively receiving texture modified food, enteral or parenteral nutrition
Planning to lose weight/go on a special diet
Planned transfer to other hospitals/departments
Pacemaker/other implanted electrical stimulants (due to Bio-Impedance Analysis (BIA)