Enteral nutrition metabolic complications

The gastrointestinal (Gl) tract defends the host from toxins and antigens by both immunologic and nonimmunologic mechanisms, collectively referred to as the gut barrier function. Whenever possible, enteral nutrition (EN) is preferred over parenteral nutrition (PN) because it is as effective, may reduce metabolic and infectious complications, and is less expensive. 

Maintaining adequate nutritional status, especially during periods of illness and metabolic stress, is an important part of patient care. Malnutrition in hospitalized patients is associated with significant complications, including increased infection risk, poor wound healing, prolonged hospital stay, and increased mortality, especially in surgical and critically ill patients.1 Specialized nutrition support refers to the administration of nutrients via the oral, enteral, or parenteral route for therapeutic purposes.1 Parenteral nutrition (PN), also... 

Velez RJ, Myers B, Guber MS. Severe acute metabolic acidosis (acute beriberi) an avoidable complication of total parenteral nutrition. J Parenter Enteral Nutr 1985 9 216-9. 

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