Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing hemodialysis (HD) therapy often experience a decline in skeletal muscle mass and strength, leading to protein-energy wasting. This significantly affects their daily activities, rendering many of them reliant on caregivers. Furthermore, malnutrition is a predominant predictive risk factor for mortality in HD patients. This pilot study investigated the effects of a 3-month intradialytic nutritional support and exercise program on lean tissue index (LTI), fat tissue index (FTI) and quality of life in 30 Indian ESRD patients undergoing HD. The exercise program included resistance and strength training during thrice weekly dialysis sessions. Additionally, each patient received a personalized high protein diet prescription. During each dialysis session, protein supplements were administered to supplement the protein intake of every patient. Body composition measurements were taken at baseline, at 6th week, and at the end of the study, while quality of life was assessed using the Kidney Disease Quality of Life-36 (KDQOL-36) questionnaire[1].

Results showed a mean LTI change of 2.95 ± 5.78 kg/m², a mean fat tissue index (FTI) change of -1.2 ± 4.48 kg/m². The mean KDQOL-36 score change of 11 ± 20.8 demonstrates a substantial and meaningful improvement in the quality of life. Although the study did not show a statistically significant improvement in LTI due to a small sample size, the results suggest that intradialytic physical activity with focused nutritional support can improve nutritional indices and enhance the quality of life of HD patients.

Keywords: End-Stage Renal Disease; Hemodialysis; Nutritional Support; Physical Activity; Protein-Energy Wasting; Quality of Life; Lean Tissue Index; Kidney Disease Quality Of Life-36