This calculator provides estimated calorie and protein intake targets for outpatients with cirrhosis. Importantly, these target ranges are just an estimate, particularly in patients with excess body water (i.e.) ascites, edema. Although the ranges are an excellent starting point, the target intake may need to be adjusted depending on specific patient characteristics. For example, patients with complications of cirrhosis (ascites, hepatic encephalopathy) may have a calorie target at the higher end of the range. Patients who are overweight/obese and have been advised to lose weight may have a calorie target at the lower end of the range. All results should be reviewed with a health care practitioner.
BMI stratified calorie intake is from: Amodio P, Bemeur C, Butterworth R, Cordoba J, Kato A, Montagnese S, Uribe M, et al. The nutritional management of hepatic encephalopathy in patients with cirrhosis: International Society for Hepatic Encephalopathy and Nitrogen Metabolism Consensus. Hepatology 2013;58:325-336.
Estimated dry weight calculation is based on: Tandon P, Low G, Mourtzakis M, Zenith L, Myers RP, Abraldes JG, Shaheen AA, Qamar H, Mansoor N, Carbonneau M, Ismond K, Mann S, Alaboudy A, Ma M. A Model to identify sarcopenia in patients with cirrhosis. Clinical Gastroenterology & Hepatology. 2016;14:1473-1480.