Short-term patient-centered nutrition counseling impacts weight and nutrient intake in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

BackgroundPatients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are at a high risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) due to increased prevalence of traditional and nontraditional CVD risks factors.ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of patient-centered nutrition counseling methods on changes in select nutrient, anthropometric, and clinical outcomes in SLE patients enrolled in a CVD prevention counseling program (CVD PCP).MethodsFrom March 2009 to June 2011 a subgroup of SLE patients enrolled in our CVD PCP were referred to a registered dietitian for individualized nutrition counseling. Outcomes of interest were assessed at baseline and six months. A primary analysis evaluated the six-month changes in nutrient intake, weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and lipid levels. A secondary analysis compared the same measurements between the nutrition counseling patients and the group that was referred but did not attend.ResultsOf 71 referrals, 41 (58%) attended nutrition counseling (female: 89%, African Ame...