To examine the effectiveness of a "need-based nutritional intervention" strategy in improving the nutritional and physical functional status of nursing home elderly.
Ninety-two nursing home residents aged 65 years or older and BMI \<25 were randomly assigned to the intervention or control groups. Subjects in the treatment group received a soy-protein-based nutritional supplement, if his/her BMI was \<24kg/m2 and nutritional score was \<24 according to the Mini Nutritional Assessment. The supplementation would be suspended if both conditions were not met. At baseline and every 4 weeks up to 24 weeks, thereafter, all subjects were measured for anthropometric parameters. At baseline, 12 weeks and 24 weeks subjects were measured for blood biochemical indicators, handgrip strength and Barthel's index.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
TRIPLE
Enrollment
92
Subjects will receive 50 g/day of a soy protein-based nutritional supplement containing 9.5 g protein, 250 kcal energy and all essential micronutrients
routine care
Asia University
Taichung, Taiwan
Assessment of nutritional status with the Mini nutritional Assessment (MNA)
Change from baseline in MNA score at 4, 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24 weeks
Time frame: Baseline and every 4 weeks, up to 24 weeks
Biochemical indicators
Change from baseline in serum albumin and cholesterol concentrations, and hemoglobin, hematocrit and lymphocyte count status at 12, and 24 weeks.
Time frame: Baseline, 12, and 24 weeks
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.