Why Nutrition Assessment Matters in Liver Disease: Tackling Malnutrition, Sarcopenia and Frailty

Working in specialist liver care has taught me that behind every diagnosis of cirrhosis or liver disease is a person someone navigating fatigue, muscle loss, and a body that’s fighting to keep up. I’ve seen first hand how quickly nutrition status can change in this group, and how regular, targeted assessment can transform outcomes. That’s why at The Liver Nutrition Clinic, this isn’t an optional extra, it’s an essential part of care.

📚 Why Does Nutrition Matter in Liver Disease?

Malnutrition, sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass), and frailty are common, and serious, complications in people with liver disease. The latest evidence shows that between 40–70% of people with cirrhosis are affected by sarcopenia and around 18–43% experience frailty. These aren’t just numbers; they translate to real risks of infections, longer hospital stays, reduced quality of life, and poorer outcomes post-transplant.

What’s concerning is that these conditions are often underdiagnosed, especially in people who may still look well but are losing strength and function beneath the surface.

🩺 The Value of Regular Nutrition Assessment

In liver disease, traditional weight and BMI measurements can be misleading. Fluid retention (ascites, oedema) masks weight loss and muscle wasting, which is why specialist liver dietitians play a vital role. We use a combination of assessments, from handgrip strength and mid-arm muscle circumference to tools like the Liver Frailty Index, to monitor changes early and act fast.

Key benefits of regular nutrition assessment include:

• Identifying malnutrition and muscle loss before it impacts daily function

• Tailoring protein and calorie needs to reduce risk of further deterioration

• Supporting transplant eligibility by improving frailty scores

• Enhancing recovery following hospital admissions
  

Research highlights that early, proactive nutrition and physical activity interventions can help reverse or slow the decline in muscle mass and strength, even in advanced liver disease.

🍽️ What Can You Do Today?

If you or a loved one is living with liver disease:

• Prioritise regular reviews with a specialist liver dietitian

• Focus on high-protein, nutrient-dense meals

• Stay active in a safe, guided way, strength matters more than steps

• Don’t ignore unintentional weight loss, reduced appetite, or increased fatigue

  
  

📣 Summary

Nutrition is never just about food, it’s about preserving strength, independence, and hope. Regular nutrition assessment is one of the most effective, evidence-based ways to manage complications like malnutrition, sarcopenia and frailty in liver disease.

How can I help you?

If you’d like expert, tailored support, book a consultation today at The Liver Nutrition Clinic. I’m Bally Parekh, MSc RD, Specialist Liver Dietitian, and I’d love to help you stay stronger for longer.

How can we help

At MESH Performance, Specialist Liver Dietitian Bally Parekh MSc. RD provides evidence-based nutrition support for those living with liver conditions. Our approach focuses on:

• Sarcopenia and frailty assessments

• Maintaining and rebuilding muscle to reduce the risk of frailty and malnutrition

• Implementing targeted dietary strategies to support overall well-being and quality of life

• Optimising nutrition to prevent deficiencies and support energy level

Managing a liver condition comes with challenges, but the right nutrition can make a real difference. We're here to provide practical support—let’s get started.

Our Instagram