Impact of COVID-19 Infection and Persistent Lingering Symptoms on Patient Reported Indicators of Nutritional Risk and Malnutrition

Abstract

Persistent malnutrition after COVID-19 infection may worsen outcomes, including delayed recovery and increased risk of rehospitalization. This study aimed to determine dietary intakes and nutrient distribution patterns after acute COVID-19 illness. Findings were also compared to national standards for intake of energy, protein, fruit, and vegetables, as well as protein intake distribution recommendations. Participants (≥18 years old, n = 92) were enrolled after baseline visit at the Post-COVID Recovery Clinic. The broad screening battery included nutritional assessment and 24-h dietary recall. Participants were, on average, 53 years old, 63% female, 69% non-Hispanic White, and 59% obese/morbidly obese. Participants at risk for malnutrition (48%) experienced significantly greater symptoms, such as gastric intestinal issues, loss of smell, loss of taste, or shortness of breath; in addition, they consumed significantly fewer calories. Most participants did not meet recommendations for fruit or vegetables. Less than 39% met the 1.2 g/kg/day proposed optimal protein intake for recovery from illness. Protein distribution throughout the day was skewed; only 3% met the recommendation at all meals, while over 30% never met the threshold at any meal. Our findings highlight the need for nutritional education and support for patients to account for lingering symptoms and optimize recovery after COVID-19 infection.

A Snapshot of the Experience of Dietitians during the COVID-19 Crisis in Five Arab Countries: Findings from a Regional Cross-Sectional Study

“…Malnourished COVID-19 patients were observed previously to experience gastric intestinal distress, loss of smell, loss of taste, and shortness of breath [34]. Moreover, less than 39% of COVID-19 patients met the 1.2 g/kg/day ideal protein intake for recovery from illness [34]. Hence, our findings corroborated the published literature.…”

“…The dietitians reported that inadequate energy, oral, and protein intake were prevalent among COVID-19 patients. Malnourished COVID-19 patients were observed previously to experience gastric intestinal distress, loss of smell, loss of taste, and shortness of breath [34]. Moreover, less than 39% of COVID-19 patients met the 1.2 g/kg/day ideal protein intake for recovery from illness [34].…”

Pre-Infection Nutritional Status, Oxidative Stress, and One-Year-Long COVID Persistence in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Prospective Cohort Study

“…Although data on the HD population are limited, our findings align with broader research suggesting that malnutrition can worsen the severity of COVID-19 and contribute to prolonged recovery times in the general patient population [ 14 , 26 , 27 , 28 , 29 ]. Malnutrition, characterized by deficiencies in essential nutrients, compromises immune function and increases vulnerability to infections [ 27 , 28 , 30 ].…”

Malnutrition in COVID-19 survivors: prevalence and risk factors

“…In this cohort, the most relevant predictors of malnutrition were the need for high-flow oxygen therapy and/or invasive ventilation during hospitalization. In a cohort of 92 subjects attending a post-COVID recovery clinic at 3 months after Sars-CoV-2 infection, approximately half were at risk of malnutrition, which was associated with persistent gastrointestinal symptoms and reduced energy and protein intake [ 35 ]. In a French prospective cohort study on 288 hospitalized COVID-19 patients, 56.9% presented malnutrition at discharge according to GLIM criteria [ 36 ].…”