Fluid restriction is often recommended for heart failure (HF) patients to prevent congestion, but its benefits and safety are unclear. The FRESH-UP study is the first to show that strict fluid restriction does not improve health status for chronic, symptomatic HF patients and may increase thirst distress without reducing mortality, hospitalization, acute kidney injury, or medication needs.

In this interview, Roland RJ van Kimmenade, MD and Alison L. Bailey, MD, FACC discuss the impacts of the FRESH-UP study and how liberal fluid intake is safe for chronic HF patients, even enhancing their well-being. Providers are encouraged to reconsider universal fluid restrictions and adopt a more individualized approach.

RELATED REFERENCES:

1. Herrmann JJ, Brunner-La Rocca HP, Baltussen LE, et al. Liberal Fluid Intake Versus Fluid Restriction in Chronic Heart Failure: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Nat Med 2025;Mar 30:[Epub ahead of print].