How should energy requirements be modified for patients on dialysis?

The energy requirements for patients on dialysis should be increased to prevent muscle wasting. This is primarily due to the catabolic state induced by chronic kidney disease and the dialysis process itself. Dialysis can lead to losses of amino acids and proteins, and the increased energy intake helps to maintain adequate nutritional status and muscle mass, which is crucial for overall health and recovery.

Patients undergoing dialysis are at risk of malnutrition because of various factors, including dietary restrictions, altered metabolism, and loss of nutrients during the dialysis treatment. Therefore, providing a higher caloric intake supports not only the maintenance of lean body mass but also helps provide the necessary fuel for the body’s increased metabolic demands in this population.

While weight gain is a consideration, the primary focus should remain on the prevention of protein energy malnutrition, which can have severe consequences on overall health and quality of life in dialysis patients. Individual preferences and specific medical conditions may influence dietary recommendations, but the paramount goal is to ensure adequate energy intake to sustain health.