Getting to the Heart of Malnutrition: Practical Strategies in Cardiac Transplantation

Malnutrition is more than a diagnosis. It is a critical factor influencing outcomes, recovery, and survival, especially in cardiac transplant patients. In this episode of the DNS Podcast, we focus on identifying and treating malnutrition in patients with advanced heart failure and those undergoing heart transplantation. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential to support metabolic stability, optimize surgical outcomes, and improve recovery. Host Christina Rollins is joined by Lena Beal, RDN, a nationally recognized critical care dietitian with over 25 years of experience in high acuity nutrition support. With deep expertise in heart failure and transplant nutrition, Lena shares practical, real world strategies for managing some of the most complex patients in clinical care.In this episode, you will learn:How to recognize early signs of malnutrition in cardiac transplant patientsHow to assess nutrition status when intake data is limited or unreliableApproaches to micronutrient deficiencies in high risk cardiac populationsStrategies to support patients before and after transplantation How to advocate for nutrition as a priority within the multidisciplinary teamThis conversation reinforces an essential message. Nutrition support is not supportive care. It is lifesaving medicine.