Limited evidence was available to determine protein needs for HF patients. Two studies cross-sectional studies reported that patients with HF have significantly higher protein needs than those without HF, as measured by negative nitrogen balance. One study indicated at least daily intake of 1.37 g protein/kg for clinically stable depeleted patients with HF and daily intake 1.12 g protein/kg for normally nourished patients can preserve actual body composition or limit the effects of hypercatabolism. Further research is needed to support the appropriate protein levels for HF patients.
