IMPACT OF NUTRITIONAL THERAPY ON QUALITY OF LIFE IN CHRONIC LIVER DISEASE PATIENTS: A QUASI-EXPERIMENTAL STUDY

Abstract

Malnutrition is a common yet often neglected issue in patients with Chronic Liver Disease (CLD) and cirrhosis, as clinical care typically emphasizes medication and laboratory monitoring over nutritional support. The lack of dietary guidance from healthcare providers contributes to poor health outcomes and a diminished quality of life. This study evaluated the impact of dietary advice on nutritional status, liver function, and quality of life in CLD patients. A quasi-experimental study was conducted at CMH Lahore, involving 56 patients divided into two groups of 28. Group A received standard medical care, while Group B received dietary advice in addition to routine treatment. Assessments at baseline and after three months included anthropometric measurements, serum albumin levels, calorie intake, and Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire (CLDQ) scores. Results showed that Group B patients had significantly improved outcomes at follow-up, including higher body mass index (20.2 vs. 23.4), tricep skinfold thickness (1.3 vs. 1.9), mid-upper arm circumference (24.3 vs. 27.8), and mid-arm muscle circumference (10.4 vs. 23.6) compared to Group A. Significant improvements were also observed in CLDQ domains such as abdominal symptoms, fatigue, systemic symptoms, and overall quality of life scores. The study concluded that dietary advice positively influences anthropometric parameters, calorie intake, liver function, and quality of life in patients with CLD