Enteral Nutrition in Hospitalized Adults

Enteral nutrition is a critical intervention for preventing and treating disease related malnutrition in hospitalized adults who cannot meet their nutritional needs orally. This review highlights the prevalence of malnutrition in hospitalized patients, the benefits of medical nutrition therapy, and the role of enteral nutrition in both critically ill and non critically ill populations. It discusses evidence based guidelines, practical considerations for enteral access, and strategies to maximize benefits while minimizing risks. The article also addresses the metabolic and inflammatory responses affecting nutrient utilization during acute illness and recovery.

Enteral nutrition is a critical intervention for preventing and treating disease related malnutrition in hospitalized adults who cannot meet their nutritional needs orally. This review highlights the prevalence of malnutrition in hospitalized patients, the benefits of medical nutrition therapy, and the role of enteral nutrition in both critically ill and non critically ill populations. It discusses evidence based guidelines, practical considerations for enteral access, and strategies to maximize benefits while minimizing risks. The article also addresses the metabolic and inflammatory responses affecting nutrient utilization during acute illness and recovery.