Combined analysis of protein intake and functional capacity in non-elective hospitalization in patients with non-dialysis chronic kidney disease

Purpose To evaluate the influence of protein intake and functional capacity, through combined analysis, on non-elective hospitalization in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Methods Patients with CKD stages 3b to 5, ≥ 18 years of age, of both sexes, were included. Dietary intake was assessed through 24-hour dietary recalls, by the Nutrition Data System for Research. Functional capacity was evaluated by gait speed (GS < 0.8 m/s) and handgrip strength (HGS < 27 kgf for men, < 16 kgf for women). Protein intake was categorized as < 0.6 g/kg/day, 0.6–0.8 g/kg/day, and > 0.8 g/kg/day, and combined with functional capacity status (adequate or reduced). The outcome was non-elective hospitalization within 12 (9–15) months. This stratification was combined with functional capacity status, categorized as either adequate or reduced. Results A total of 169 patients were evaluated, median age 65 (57–71) years, 51.5% women and 27% were hospitalized. Reduced GS was observed in 38%( n = 64) and low HGS in 31% ( n = 52). Overall, 34% ( n = 58) of patients had protein intake > 0.8 g/kg/day with reduced functional capacity, while 4.7%( n = 8) had intake < 0.6 g/kg/day and preserved functionality. In uni- and multivariate analyses, neither protein intake nor functional capacity were associated with hospitalization. Conclusions In this study, none of the evaluated combinations of protein intake and functional capacity predicted of non-elective hospitalization in patients with CKD.