The Effect of Ophicephalus Striatus Extract on Levels of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1), Albumin, and Mini Nutritional Assessment Score in Elderly Patients With Malnutrition: A Double Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

This research was conducted in Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital and M. Djamil General Hospital, in collaboration with Biomedical Laboratory Faculty of Medicine University of Andalas and Prodia Laboratory, Indonesia. The inclusion criteria were elderly patients (≥ 60 y.o.) with malnutrition (MNA score ≤ 23,5) and hypoalbuminaemia (< 3,5 g/dL), had been treated, and permitted to leave from the hospital. All participants had been interviewed and physically examined to measure the anthropometric profile. Investigators also measured participant's Activity of Daily Living ADL Barthel, Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), and Abbreviated Mental Test (AMT) to assess participant's compliance for consuming Ophiocephalus striatus extract. Blood samples were obtained to measure participant's level of IGF-1 and albumin before intervention.

Recruited-randomized participants were classified into two groups (control and intervention) with double-blind scheme. Intervention group was given the extract 5 grams two times/day for two weeks. After two weeks, all participants were invited back to out-patient clinic in hospital. MNA score was measured after the intervention. Blood sample were obtained again to know if there were any changes in IGF-1 level and albumin level.

Finally, investigators analyzed results to generate the conclusion.