What is enteral nutrition?

Enteral nutrition refers to the delivery of nutrients directly into the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, specifically through a tube that typically passes into the stomach or intestines. This method of nutrition is vital for individuals who cannot consume food orally due to various health issues, such as swallowing difficulties or severe illness.

The use of a feeding tube allows for the administration of a complete liquid diet that can meet all caloric and nutritional needs, ensuring that the body receives essential nutrients for maintenance and recovery. This is particularly important in medical settings where patients may be unable to eat due to surgery, neurological disorders, or other medical conditions.

In contrast, other options mention methods that do not fit the definition of enteral nutrition. Preparing food supplements for oral intake involves patients ingesting food orally, which is different from enteral nutrition. Intravenous methods involve administering nutrients directly into the bloodstream, a process known as parenteral nutrition, which is also not considered enteral. Dietary counseling focuses on guiding patients in making healthier food choices rather than providing direct nutritional support, differentiating it from the active delivery of nutrients through enteral means.