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Interdisciplinary approach improves nutritional status of children with heart diseases

Silvana G Benzecry1, Heitor P Leite, Fernanda C Oliveira

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Discipline of Nutrition, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Nutrition (Burbank, Los Angeles County, Calif.)
|May 21, 2008
PubMed

Insights

An interdisciplinary team improved nutrient intake and nutritional status in children with heart disease. However, growth improvements were not seen in those with pulmonary hypertension or uncompensated congestive heart failure.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Clinical Nutrition
  • Child Health

Background:

  • Children with heart disease often suffer from malnutrition.
  • Prevalence of malnutrition was 57% in the study population.
  • Stunting and wasting were common, particularly in those with pulmonary hypertension or uncompensated congestive heart failure.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the impact of an interdisciplinary team on nutrient intake and nutritional status in pediatric heart disease patients.
  • To assess anthropometric measurements and dietary intake over a six-month period.

Main Methods:

  • A study involving 35 children (10.0 +/- 7.5 months old) over six months.
  • Assessment of anthropometric measurements and dietary intake.
  • Analysis of nutrient and mineral intake compared to estimated average requirement levels.

Main Results:

  • Overall improvement in Z scores for weight-for-height and height-for-age was observed (P < 0.01).
  • Significant increases in micronutrient and mineral intake were noted.
  • No significant changes in height-for-age index were found in patients with pulmonary hypertension or uncompensated congestive heart failure.

Conclusions:

  • Interdisciplinary team intervention enhanced nutrient intake and overall nutritional status in children with heart disease.
  • Growth remained suboptimal in a subgroup with severe cardiac conditions.
  • Routine nutritional support is recommended for all children with heart disease.
Abstract

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