Paper Summary
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Sugar Overload Linked to Higher Mortality in Cirrhosis Patients (But It's an Observational Study, So Hold Your Horses)
This observational study found a link between higher carbohydrate intake, especially sugar, glucose, fructose, and sucrose, and an increased risk of death in patients with liver cirrhosis over a four-year follow-up period. Conversely, higher lactose intake was associated with lower mortality. It's important to note that this study cannot prove cause-and-effect.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
None identified
Identified Weaknesses
The sample size, while adequate for a single-center study, is relatively small (121 participants, 43 deaths) which may limit the statistical power to detect subtle associations or interactions.
Recall bias and lack of dietary follow-up
Relying on FFQs for dietary assessment introduces recall bias as participants may not accurately remember their dietary intake. Using only a baseline FFQ makes it difficult to account for any diet changes during the four years.
Observational study design
As an observational study, cause-and-effect relationships cannot be established. Other unmeasured factors (genetics, other medical conditions, lifestyle) could have influenced the outcomes.
Generalizability of the findings may be limited as it is important to consider cultural and dietary differences between populations (Iran versus Western countries).
Relatively short follow-up period
A four-year follow-up period may not be sufficient to fully capture the long-term effects of dietary carbohydrate type on cirrhosis-related mortality.
Rating Explanation
This is an observational study with a relatively small sample size, limiting causal inference and potentially impacting statistical power. However, the study addresses an important question with a prospective design and statistical adjustments for confounders. Thus, a rating of 3 seems appropriate.
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File Information
Original Title:
Carbohydrate consumption and cirrhosis-related mortality: a prospective cohort study
Uploaded:
August 14, 2025 at 08:18 AM
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