Acute liver failure (ALF) presents with an acute abnormality of liver blood tests in an individual without underlying chronic liver disease. The clinical course leads to the development of coagulopathy and hepatic encephalopathy. The role of nutrition in its prevention and treatment remains uncertain. We aimed to review literature data on the concept of ALF and the role of nutrition in its treatment and prevention, considering the impact of gut microbiota dysbiosis and eubiosis. We conducted a review of the literature on the main medical databases using the following keywords and acronyms and their associations: liver failure, nutrition, branched-chain amino acids, gut microbiota, dysbiosis, and probiotics. Upon their arrival at the emergency department, an early, accurate nutritional assessment is crucial for individuals with ALF. Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), stable euglycemia maintenance, and moderate caloric support are crucial for this subset of patients. An excessive protein load must be avoided because it worsens hepatic encephalopathy. Preclinical evidence supports future probiotics use for ALF treatment/prevention. Nutritional support and treatment for ALF are crucial steps against patient morbidity and mortality. BCAAs and euglycemia remain the mainstay of nutritional treatment of ALF. Gut dysbiosis re-modulation has an emerging and natural-history changing impact on ALF.
The beneficial impact of dietary fiber on the prevention and management of several chronic conditions associated with aging, including diabetes, neurodegenerative, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer, is well-known. High fiber intake has been associated with reduced inflammatory mediators counteracting the low-grade chronic inflammation typical of older age. In addition, dietary fiber improves postprandial glucose response and insulin resistance. In contrast, during acute diseases, its effects on insulin resistance and modulation of immune response are unclear. The aim of this narrative is to summarize the evidence for the potential impact of dietary fiber on inflammation and insulin resistance in older adults, with a particular focus on those acutely ill. Available evidence suggests that dietary fiber has the potential to counteract acute inflammation and to improve metabolic health. In addition, modulation of gut microbiota composition may contribute to improved immune function, particularly in the setting of aging-associated dysbiosis. This phenomenon has relevant implications in those acutely ill, in whom dysbiosis can be exacerbated. Our review leads to the conclusion that dietary interventions based on fiber manipulation could exploit its beneficial effects on inflammation and insulin resistance, if conducted from a precision nutrition perspective. This could also be true for the acutely ill patient, even though strong evidence is lacking.
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