Micronutrients and ICU-Acquired Weakness: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Critical care medicine
• Nutritional science
• Neuromuscular disorders

Background:

• Intensive Care Unit-Acquired Weakness (ICU-AW) is a critical illness complication.
• The role of micronutrients in ICU-AW prevention and treatment is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize current evidence on micronutrients' role in ICU-AW.
• To examine findings in both critical care and general medical settings.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of existing literature.
• Analysis of studies on specific micronutrients (Vitamin K1, D, CoQ10, Zinc, Copper, Iron, Carnitine).

Main Results:

• Fragmented and controversial evidence for micronutrients in ICU-AW.
• Potential benefits of Vitamin K1 and D for strength and mobility.
• Coenzyme Q10 may improve muscle composition; Zinc and Copper show potential roles.
• Uncertain results for Iron and Carnitine; stronger evidence outside ICU.

Conclusions:

• Micronutrient supplementation shows potential but requires more research in critical care.
• Larger observational studies and RCTs are necessary to confirm efficacy.
• Further investigation is crucial for optimizing ICU nutrition and patient outcomes.