What is Enteral Nutrition? How it is beneficial for patient suffering from severe intestinal failure?
Enteral Nutrition is a method of feeding the body which involves feeding nutrients directly from the stomach into the bloodstream. This method is done with the use of a tube or catheter inserted in the body or via a vein. The reason for inserting tubes into the body is to allow liquid nutrients to be absorbed immediately by the body cells. It is a more convenient and safer way of feeding compared to parenteral or intravenous methods. The use of Enteral Nutrition is preferred above parenteral or intravenous nutrition because of its increased safety and reliability. A detailed assessment of every patient s digestive function and nutritional requirements should always be carried out before initiation of enteral nutrition treatment. The exact amount of nutrients to be provided, the frequency of supplements, and the duration of therapy should be decided by the doctor. In addition, patients who are unable to tolerate parenteral or intravenous feedings can use this therapy. There are ...