Metabolic Encephalopathy: Nutritional Strategies
Metabolic encephalopathy is a brain dysfunction resulting from metabolic imbalances affecting the central nervous system. Its repercussions can be significant if not detected and treated in time.
Symptoms of Metabolic Encephalopathy
Symptoms may vary depending on the cause and severity. In the early stages, confusion, difficulty concentrating and mood changes are common.
As the condition progresses, excessive drowsiness, disorientation and coordination problems may occur. In severe cases, seizures or even loss of consciousness occur, requiring urgent medical attention.
Main Causes of Metabolic Encephalopathy
The main causes of metabolic encephalopathy include:
- Liver failure: The inability of the liver to eliminate toxins can lead to their accumulation in the brain.
- Kidney failure: Accumulation of waste products in the blood due to poor kidney function can affect brain function.
- Electrolyte imbalances: Abnormal levels of sodium, potassium or calcium may interfere with neuronal activity.
- Hypoglycemia: Low blood glucose levels can deprive the brain of its main source of energy, affecting its functioning.
- Intoxication: Exposure to toxic substances, such as drugs, alcohol and heavy metals, can alter brain function.
- Hypoxia: Lack of oxygen to the brain can be caused by conditions such as anemia, respiratory failure or cardiac arrest, increasing the risk of metabolic encephalopathy.
Nutrition and Metabolic Encephalopathy: How does diet play a role?
Nutritional management is key to recovery and will depend on the underlying disease and individual characteristics.
For example, in patients with liver disease, sufficient protein intake is recommended to avoid loss of muscle mass.
Recent studies indicate that consuming 1.0 to 1.5 g of protein per kg of body weight does not aggravate encephalopathy in people with cirrhosis. However, in cases of severe hyperammonemia, the amount should be adjusted.
On the other hand, hypoglycemia is common in acute liver failure due to altered sugar metabolism. To prevent it, a constant intake of slowly absorbed carbohydrates is suggested.
In more severe cases, intravenous dextrose solutions may be necessary. This helps maintain blood glucose levels within a safe range.
Nutritional Deficiencies and Supplementation
People with metabolic encephalopathy are often deficient in B vitamins, zinc and essential amino acids. These substances are important for neurometabolic function.
Supplementation with these micronutrients can promote recovery and improve cognitive function. However, it should always be done under the advice of a health professional.
Prevention and Lifestyle Habits to Reduce the Risk of Metabolic Encephalopathy
From a nutritional point of view, a balanced diet supports metabolic and brain function.
Consuming easily digestible proteins, maintaining a good intake of fiber and probiotics, as well as avoiding excess alcohol, can help reduce the accumulation of toxins in the body.
In addition, habits such as adequate hydration, moderate physical activity and education of the patient and his or her environment are key to identify early symptoms and act in time.
These strategies contribute to better control of the disease and a better quality of life in the long term.
Written by: Nutritionist Andrés Izurieta
Bibliographic citations:
Shingina A, Mukhtar N, Wakim-Fleming J, Alqahtani S, Wong RJ, Limketkai BN, et al. Acute Liver Failure Guidelines. Am J Gastroenterol. 2023.
Sasaki T, Kakisaka K, Kuroda H, Matsumoto T. Nutritional management for acute liver failure. Hepatol Res. 2024.
Encefalopatía hepática: MedlinePlus enciclopedia médica. 2023.
