Liver disease secondary to alcohol ranges from alcoholic fatty liver
disease to acute hepatitis to cirrhotic liver disease. It is imperative that
alcohol be discontinued to allow for any potential improvement in liver
function, with most benefit being seen in the early stages of the disease.
Alcoholic liver disease has a profound effect on nutrient intake, nutrition
status, and metabolism, contributing to a high prevalence of malnutrition in
this population. Early intervention with nutrition therapy may improve
response to treatment, alleviate symptoms, and improve quality and quantity of
life. In this review, nutrition assessment parameters and medical nutrition
therapy goals for alcoholic liver disease are discussed.
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