Operationalizing the malnutrition-based chronic disease model in adults

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Chronic Disease Epidemiology
• Clinical Nutrition

Background:

• Persistent gaps exist in nutrition research, knowledge, and practice for adults.
• Existing models do not fully address the triple burden of malnutrition (undernutrition, overnutrition, micronutrient derangement).
• A need exists for a comprehensive framework to guide nutrition care and optimize patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To operationalize the malnutrition-based chronic disease (MBCD) model for adults.
• To provide evidence-based, stage-specific metrics and interventions for MBCD model implementation.
• To align the MBCD model with current nutrition medicine advancements and interdisciplinary approaches.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted from May 1 to November 1, 2025.
• The study synthesizes epidemiological classifiers, pathophysiological mechanisms, and clinical evidence.
• The MBCD model's four stages (nutrition risk, imbalance, disease, complications) and drivers are defined.

Main Results:

• The MBCD model integrates the triple burden of malnutrition and a complications-centric approach.
• Evidence for stage-specific metrics and interventions is presented for MBCD model implementation.
• The model is designed to disambiguate nutrition medicine terminology and identify early prevention opportunities.

Conclusions:

• The operationalized MBCD model provides a framework for optimizing nutrition care in adults.
• The model aligns with AI-enabled informatics and interdisciplinary team approaches in nutrition medicine.
• Further implementation and validation in diverse settings are crucial for the MBCD model's refinement and broader application.