<![CDATA[Introduction: Patients undergoing hemodialysis are at risk of protein-energy wasting, hypoalbuminemia, and loss of lower limb muscle mass. This study examined the associations of protein, iron, calcium, and vitamin D intake with serum albumin, anthropometric measures, and indicators of lower limb muscle mass (LLMM). Methods: This cross-sectional study included 150 patients undergoing hemodialysis who were recruited through purposive sampling. Dietary intake was assessed using a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Serum albumin, body mass index (BMI), leg skeletal muscle mass (LSM), calf circumference, and thigh circumference were measured. Associations were assessed using linear regression. Result: Protein (β = 0.225, p = 0.006), iron (β = 0.185, p = 0.024), and calcium intake (β = 0.251, p = 0.002) were positively associated with serum albumin. Protein intake was positively associated with body mass index (β = 0.187, p = 0.022). Calcium intake was positively associated with calf circumference (β = 0.321, p = 0.047) and thigh circumference (β = 0.292, p = 0.001). Conclusion: Protein, iron, and calcium intake were associated with serum albumin, while calcium intake was associated with calf and thigh circumference. No significant association with LSM was observed. These cross-sectional findings warrant further investigation of factors affecting muscle mass in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Future studies should investigate the combined effects of dietary intervention with inflammation and physical activity on muscle preservation in hemodialysis patients.]]>
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