Nutritional support in liver cirrhosis

Protein-energy malnutrition, often associated with vitamin and mineral deficiencies, represents a common complication of liver cirrhosis. In spite of the well known impact on morbidity and mortality, in clinical practice malnutrition remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. This review describes main strategies for prevention and treatment of malnutrition, focusing on specific problems such as protein intake in hepatic encephalopathy, sodium restriction and fluid restriction. The aim is to focus reader attention on the role of nutrition support in the management of cirrhotic patients, and to provide practice recommendations, based on available evidence.