Impacto da terapia nutricional na prevenção da sarcopenia em pacientes críticos: uma revisão de escopo

Abstract

This study analyzes the impact of nutritional therapy on the prevention of sarcopenia in critically ill patients, through a scoping review. Sarcopenia is a common condition in intensive care unit patients, characterized by the loss of muscle mass and function, and is aggravated by systemic inflammation, immobility, and nutritional inadequacy. In this context, the research aimed to answer the following question: what are the effects of the amount of energy and protein intake on the maintenance of muscle mass and function in critically ill patients? The general objective was to define appropriate energetic-protein intake parameters for this patient profile based on scientific literature. The methodology followed the framework of Arksey and O’Malley, with a qualitative approach, inductive method, and bibliographic search in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Five relevant studies were selected, showing that early and adequate administration of protein (between 1.2 and 2.5 g/kg/day) and energy (70% to 100% of energy requirements) contributes to muscle mass preservation and improved clinical outcomes. Personalized interventions combined with physical therapy proved to be more effective. However, challenges remain regarding anabolic resistance and the implementation of nutritional guidelines in ICUs. It is concluded that nutritional therapy is an essential tool in maintaining muscle health in critically ill patients and should be applied early, individually, and based on scientific evidence