Comparing nutrient intake, functional capacity and quality of life in adults with COPD, given either an oral nutritional protein supplement with dietary counselling or receiving dietary counselling alone

Almost 90% of COPD deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, where effective strategies for prevention and control are not always implemented or accessible. Several key aspects of managing nutritional complications in COPD must be addressed, from assessing nutritional needs to implementing dietary strategies. Regular assessment of weight, BMI, and dietary intake is crucial for identifying and addressing nutritional issues early. This study will explore and inform the development of appropriate nutrition intervention strategies to improve the nutritional status, functional capacity, and thus QoL of patients with COPD. The primary objective is to compare the effects of an oral nutritional supplement (ONS) taken with dietary counseling vs. dietary counseling alone on Protein consumption. The secondary objective is to to compare the effects of an oral nutritional supplement (ONS) taken with dietary counseling vs. dietary counseling alone on Energy Consumption, Total food intake, Serum Total Protein, Serum Albumin: Globulin (A/G) ratio, Quality of life, Change in BMI, Change in Body weight, Hand grip strength will be assessed using a dynamometer at baseline and the end of the study and Distance walked 6 mins (or 12 mins) at baseline and the end of the study. PI Max and PE Max will be measured to assess lung function and will be recorded using spirometry. The Energy, protein intake will be assessed at baseline, weeks 4, 8 and 12 using a food diary distributed by study personnel Blood drawn at baseline and at the end of the study will be used to assess serum protein and ratio of serum albumin to globulin. Quality of life and COPD severity will be assessed at baseline, weeks 4, 8 and 12 using SF-36questionnaire.Compliance will be calculated as the amount of ONS consumed in proportion to prescribed calories and Safety will be assessed at baseline and at each visit until the end of the study.