Factors affecting the nutritional status of patients with chronic renal failure undergoing haemodialysis

There is a high prevalence of the features of protein-energy malnutrition among patients with chronic renal failure undergoing maintenance haemodialysis. Poor food intakes are only partly responsible. The disease state itself and renal replacement therapy are contributing factors to the development of malnutrition. Hypogeusia, anorexia and impaired digestion of nutrients have been reported. Changes in the hormonal environment may result in poor utilization and altered metabolism of nutrients. The requirements for nutrients may be different to those in normal healthy individuals. However, despite the effects of unalterable non-dietary factors on nutrition, it is possible to manipulate dietary intakes to improve the nutritional status.