Intensive weight loss combining flexible dialysis with a personalized, ad libitum, coach‐assisted diet program. A “pilot” case series

This study measures weight loss, side effects, and patients' opinions. Over 12–30 months, all patients lost weight (median −10.3 kg [5.7–20], median ΔBMI–3.2). Serum albumin (pre‐diet 3.78; post‐diet 3.83 g/dL), hemoglobin (pre‐diet 11; post‐diet 11.2 g/dL), and acid–base balance (HCO3 pre‐diet: 23.3; post‐diet: 23.4 mmol/L) remained stable, with decreasing needs for erythropoietin and citrate or bicarbonate supplements. Calcium‐phosphate‐parathyroid hormone (PTH) balance improved (PTH‐pre 576; post 286 pg/mL). Three out of 4 hypertensive patients discontinued, 1 decreased antihypertensives. None experienced severe side effects. Patient satisfaction was high (9 on a 0–10 analog scale). Personalized, incremental hemodialysis schedules allow patient enrollment in intensive personalized weight loss programs, with promising results.

Source: Hemodialysis International - December 12, 2014 Category: Hematology Authors: Federica Neve Vigotti, Luigi Teta, Anna Pia, Sara Mirasole, Gabriella Guzzo, Domenica Giuffrida, Irene Capizzi, Paolo Avagnina, Davide Ippolito, Giorgina Barbara Piccoli Tags: Original Article Source Type: research