Analysis on Eating Behavior and Nutritional Status of Nephritic Patients with Mild Kidney Malfunction in Korea

신장염 환자의 식행동 및 영양상태 평가

This study investigated nutritional status and eating behaviors among 59 nephritic patients with mild kidney malfunction in Korea. Nutritional status was measured by blood analysis and 1-3 day dietary recall and records, and eating behaviors were assessed by a questionnaire. Mean Body Mass Index(BMI) was within the normal range, while 21% and 14% of the patients were underweight and overweight, respectively. They received nutrition information mainly from doctors, nurses and mass media, but rarely from nutrition professionals. A quarter of patients skipped breakfast at least 3 times per 12% of the patients, respectively. Energy intake of 83% of the patients was less than the recommended level. Protein intakes of 56% of them were either under or over the recommended levels. Patients had low vitamin B$_2$ and calcium(<75% of the RDA) and excessive phosphorus(138% RDA) and vitamin C(170% RDA). Major food sources to absolute nutrient intakes were similar to those for the average Koreas, except for milk. Milk intake was low in our patients. Dietary quantity and quality were associated positively with BMI, albumin, and HDL-cholesterol and negatively with triglycerides and BUN. Results of this study indicate low nutritional status of the patients and, in turn a need for conducting nutritional education or counselling at regular at regular basis for the nephritic patients with mild kidney malfunction.