Learn Glossary clinical condition

Heart Failure

Inability of the heart to pump blood at a rate sufficient to meet tissue metabolic demand, classified by ejection fraction (HFrEF, HFpEF).

Also: Congestive Heart Failure, HF

Drivers include ischemic heart disease, hypertension, valvular disease, and cardiomyopathy. Cardiac cachexia complicates advanced HF. MNT focuses on sodium restriction (typically 2 g/day), fluid restriction in select patients, alcohol limitation, and maintaining adequate energy and protein to prevent cachexia. Monitor for diuretic-induced electrolyte loss and thiamin deficiency.

How one textbook covers it

  • Krause and Mahan's Food and the Nutrition Care Process, 16th ed.Chapter 33

    Drivers include ischemic heart disease, hypertension, valvular disease, and cardiomyopathy. Cardiac cachexia complicates advanced HF. MNT focuses on sodium restriction (typically 2 g/day), fluid restriction in select patients, alcohol limitation, and maintaining adequate energy and protein to prevent cachexia. Monitor for diuretic-induced electrolyte loss and thiamin deficiency.

Related terms

Cardiac Cachexia, Cardiovascular Disease, Sodium Restriction