Complete protein and energy balanced tube feed with fermentable fiber, 100% hydrolyzed guar gum
Bowel dysfunction (diarrhoea)
Diarrhoea is a complication that causes malnutrition and dehydration in patients in hospital or at home, leading to nutritional risk and a worsening of clinical evolution.
DAEN (diarrhoea associated with enteral nutrition)
This is one of the most frequent complications in patients who receive enteral nutrition, 20-70 % of whom suffer from diarrhoea. Its definition is relative, based on:
- Number of stools
- Frequency
- Consistency
- Volume
Many factors can cause diarrhoea. Chief among these are diet-related factors (osmolarity, fat content) as well as the individual technique of administering enteral nutrition, possible infections, drugs administered (prokinetics, antibiotics, etc.) and the underlying pathology itself.
Prevention and treatment of DAEN with proper nutrition is one of the issues to take into consideration when planning the diet. Enteral nutrition with soluble fibre assists in controlling diarrhoea in hospital and at home.
Soluble fibre is used in these cases since it is an ideal substrate for growing the bacteria of the colon. It increases the synthesis of the short-chain fatty acids that are of tremendous importance in maintaining the structure and function of colon cells. Intake of soluble fibre controls diarrhoea and enhances the integrity of bowel flora and the immune system.
JC Montejo González y M. Catalán González. Diarrea. Significado y control en nutrición artificial. Nutr Clin Med 2009;III (1):40-51.
1ª Guía discusiones sobre dietoterapia y nutrición clínica. Nutrición enteral y fibra: problemas y soluciones.
