Retrospective analysis of the impact of dietary counselling and nutritional assessment on patients undergoing maintenance haemodialysis

Background: Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) undergoing maintenance haemodialysis (MHD) face considerable nutritional challenges, exacerbate disease progression and affect their quality of life. This study evaluated the role of dietary counselling and routine nutritional assessment in improving the nutritional and biochemical profiles of patients with MHD at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. Aim: To evaluate the role of dietary counselling and routine nutritional assessment in improving nutritional status and biochemical profiles of patients with maintenance haemodialysis (MHD). Material and Methods: In this retrospective study conducted from April 2021 to March 2022, data were retrieved from the hospital information system of 135 patients with end-stage renal disease who had undergone MHD three times a week. Of these, 100 fulfilled the pre-planned study criteria. A modified 9-point Subjective Global Assessment Performa was used to assess health and nutritional status and stratify patients at moderate, mild or no nutritional risk. Dietary assessments were collected using 24-h recall and food diary records. The key outcomes measured were calorie and protein intake changes, serum albumin and cholesterol levels. Results: The findings revealed significant improvements in nutritional intake, with mean calorie and protein intake rising notably post-counselling (211 kcal and 10.18 g at the first session; 336 kcal and 15.28 g at the second). Mean serum albumin increased by +0.19 g/dL ( P < 0.05), and cholesterol levels decreased by −6 mg/dL ( P < 0.05), highlighting the effectiveness of dietary interventions. Conclusion: Structured dietary counselling significantly enhances the nutritional outcomes of dialysis patients. This study underscores the importance of integrating personalised nutrition into CKD management to improve health outcomes.