Rapid Fat Loss Diets

Sunday, June 7, 2009

Obtaining Correct Nutrition From Feeding Tube Formulas

By Chris Channing

Not being able to swallow could mean that you would have to invest in feeding tube options, whether temporary or permanent. Feeding tubes take careful maintenance, but so too does the nutrition content that you feed into the patient's body. It's important to know what type of nutrition the person needs.

Be sure that you obtain a formula that is designed for feeding tube usage. Some formulas may be too thick for the feeding tube, which can be surprisingly small. The correct formula should be more liquid than semi-liquid to prevent clogging of the tube, which can obviously turn into a bad scenario. Obtaining a formula that doesn't leave residue is also quite important for sanitation issues.

It is considered sanitary to flush the tube before and after you make use of a feeding tube formula. The first reason this is good is because it hydrates you. It's best to use purified water to help clean out the inside of the tube. If you would require a more intensive clean, you can use a type of cola or soda to help clean the inside with carbonation. Just be sure to insert a second flush of water to also help clean out all the residue that the soda leaves behind.

The correct nutritional formula should have plenty of carbohydrates, proteins, and minerals so that you will be able to have all the benefits of eating food normally without having to do so. Be careful to find a formula that doesn't contain a large percentage of carbohydrate-based calories, however, as such formulas could inhibit more of a glycemic response in some feeding tube patients.

Formulas should have a healthy supply of fiber so that normal bowel function can be maintained. Diets without fiber can quickly result in more health problems in addition to those already being observed. Due to the nature of the feeding, those who use feeding tubes may not have normal bowel movements so this is an important aspect of feeding tube formulas to remember.

If you have been told that you must be put on a feeding tube formula, do consult a dieting professional so that you can balance out your calories. Taking in too many can cause a build up in energy, which results in weight gain. Too little can starve the body of its nutrients, which is equally unhealthy. In addition, some conditions require certain nutrients and others seek to avoid them.

Closing Comments

Maintaining a good health while not being able to chew or swallow food is important. Do keep in mind that feeding tube formulas vary wildly based on what they were created for, and who they were created for. Ask for additional assistance for more information. - 17273

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