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DOI: 10.4103/0970-0358.138959
Comparison of the nutritional status and outcome in thermal burn patients receiving vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets
Publication History
Publication Date:
26 August 2019 (online)
![](https://www.thieme-connect.de/media/10.1055-s-00042863/201402/lookinside/thumbnails/10-4103-0970-0358-138959_00236-1.jpg)
ABSTRACT
Background: The importance of adequate nutritional support in burned patients cannot be overemphasised. For adequate long-term compliance by the patients, diet should be formulated in accordance with their pre-burn dietary habits, religious beliefs, and tastes. Patients and Methods: A study was conducted in 42 consecutive patients suffering from 10% to 50% of 2nd and 3rd degree thermal burns with the aim to compare nutritional status, clinical outcome, and cost-effectiveness of vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets. The patients were divided into two groups depending upon their pre-injury food habits. Total calories were calculated by Curreri formula. Both groups were compared by various biochemical parameters, microbiological investigations, weight , status of wound healing, graft take, and hospital stay and they were followed for at least 60 days postburn. Results: The results were comparable in both groups. Vegetarian diet was found to be more palatable and cost-effective. Conclusion: Vegetarian diet is a safe and viable option for the patients suffering from burn injury. The common belief that non-vegetarian diet is superior to vegetarian diet is a myth.
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