Effects of preventive versus "on-demand" nutritional support on paid labour productivity, physical exercise and performance status during PEG-interferon-containing treatment for hepatitis C.

Background And Objective: Deterioration of nutritional status during PEG-interferon containing therapy for chronic hepatitis C can be ameliorated by preventive nutritional support. We aimed to explore whether such support also affects paid labour productivity, physical exercise and performance status.

Methods: In this prospective randomized controlled trial (J Hepatol 2012;57:1069-75), 53 patients with chronic hepatitis C had been allocated to "on demand" support (n=26: nutritional intervention if weight loss>5%) or preventive support (n=27: regular dietary advice plus energy- and protein-rich evening snack) during PEG-interferon-containing therapy.

Preventive versus "on-demand" nutritional support during antiviral treatment for hepatitis C: a randomized controlled trial.

Background & Aims: Although antiviral treatment for hepatitis C (HCV) is highly effective, side effects often occur, including weight loss, digestive symptoms, and impaired quality of life. We aimed at exploring the beneficial effects of preventive nutritional support.

Methods: In a randomized controlled trial, 53 HCV patients were allocated to "on demand" support (n=26: nutritional intervention if weight loss >5%) or preventive support (n=27: regular dietary advice plus energy- and protein-rich evening snack).

Bacterial infections in cirrhosis: role of proton pump inhibitors and intestinal permeability.

Background:   Cirrhotic patients are at considerable risk for bacterial infections, possibly through increased intestinal permeability and bacterial overgrowth. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may increase infection risk. We aimed to explore the potential association between PPI use and bacterial infection risk in cirrhotic patients and potential underlying mechanisms in complementary patient and animal models.

Protein energy malnutrition predicts complications in liver cirrhosis.

Background: Protein energy malnutrition frequently occurs in liver cirrhosis. Hand-grip strength according to Jamar is most reliable to predict protein energy malnutrition. We aimed to determine whether protein energy malnutrition affects complication risk.