Breath Ammonia as a Malnutrition Screening Tool

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how breath markers relate to nutritional status, specifically focusing on malnutrition. This study compares breath molecules like ammonia and nitric oxide between people with and without malnutrition, using established nutrition screening tools and physical examinations. The goal is to find early signs of malnutrition through breath analysis combined with questionnaires. The study includes two parts: a cross-sectional comparison and an interventional trial with a subset of participants. In the interventional phase, participants are randomly assigned to either a feeding protocol, where they consume study beverages providing over 1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of bodyweight and 120% of energy needs every three hours during waking hours, or a fasting protocol, where they consume only water for 24 hours. Breath samples are collected before, during, and after these interventions to observe changes. Participants will undergo blood and breath sampling, complete questionnaires about their health and diet, and have a physical exam. Researchers will measure breath ammonia and volatile organic compounds upon waking, during interventions, and before bed. The study includes adults aged 18 to 95 years and monitors safety and adherence throughout. Participation may last for the duration of the intervention days and associated assessments.

Breath Analysis & Malnutrition