Ann Clin Nutr Metab.  2024 Aug;16(2):78-86. 10.15747/ACNM.2024.16.2.78.

Impact of immune-supplementation on muscle health and inflammation status of South Indian patients who have undergone gastrointestinal resection: a pilot randomized-controlled study

• Pavithran N
• Bompart C
• Alili A
• Vayoth SO

• KMID: 2558564
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.15747/ACNM.2024.16.2.78

Abstract

Purpose
Gastrointestinal (GI) resection significantly impacts nutritional and physical health, causing stress and inflammation that increase energy needs. Post-operative caloric intake often falls short, disrupting protein homeostasis and compromising muscle health. Nutritional supplementation is crucial to reduce inflammation and maintain muscle health. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a three-week oral nutritional immuno-supplement (IMM) intervention compared to a control (CTL) on post-operative inflammatory status and muscle health in patients receiving limb and chest physiotherapy from June to August 2023.
Methods
A randomized, controlled, blinded cohort of 20 patients (ages 30–75) undergoing GI surgery was established. Participants were recruited on the day of surgery and assigned to either the CTL, which received standard protein supplementation, or the IMM group, which received protein immune-enriched supplementation for three weeks. All participants also received chest and limb physiotherapy. Follow-up and data collection were conducted at three postsurgery time points: 3 days, 7 days, and 3 weeks. Assessments included body composition, handgrip strength, basal metabolic rate, 24-hour dietary intake, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels.
Results
Fifteen patients completed the study (IMM=9, CTL=6). After three weeks of supplementation, the IMM group showed a significant increase in lean mass percentage and handgrip strength, along with a significant decrease in CRP levels, compared to the CTL.
Conclusion
A 3-week oral immuno-supplement provided to patients post-GI resection, in conjunction with limb and chest physiotherapy, is more effective in reducing inflammation and preserving muscle health compared to standard protein supplementation.

Keyword

Body composition; Digestive system surgical procedures; Immunonutrition diet; Inflammation; Muscle strength