Pectin-containing compared with standard polymeric formula in enteral nutrition: A randomized controlled parallel study in Thailand.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of a Ready to Hang (RTH), pectin-containing enteral nutrition on gastrointestinal symptoms and nutrition status.

METHODS AND STUDY DESIGN

An open-label, randomized, prospective controlled study. Thirty hospitalized patients with tube feeding for 9 days or more.

INTERVENTION

A pectin-containing enteral formula (Hine E-Gel®) or a standard polymeric formula (Ensure®) was administered for 1 week. Administration methods: Administered via a nasogastric tube 4 times per day (every 6 hours), 30 minutes per administration.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the frequency of diarrhea or the nutritional indicators. An additional survey was conducted of 50 nurses who were involved in the administration of the study products. Most respondents replied that the RTH, pectin-containing formula was easier to use and that the duties related to its administration were decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

The pectin-containing formula was not detectably superior to the standard polymeric formula in terms of gastrointestinal symptoms. The use of RTH may simplify medical care and enable efficient management.