Enteral Nutrition has long been a part of the neonate and elderly tube-feeding procedure. When regular food consumption and digestion becomes challenging due to lung complications accompanied with gastrointestinal dysfunctions (such as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder), doctors advise tube-feeding – a healthy alternative to traditional eating habits, all complete with different flavors and consistencies. A thickener is an enteral accessory used to make sure that the administrated food solution derives the required consistency for reducing the chances of GER, diarrhea, skin complications, etc. in the person consuming it.

Here are some factors that might help shed some light on the otherwise “complicated” procedure.

Factors to Keep in Mind While Administering Thickened Enteral Formulas

The procedure and posture modifications, externally and internally applicable medicines, fluid flow rate and feeding frequency are some of the integral factors while tube feeding. Technical factors such as nutrient interactions, volume and timing of the water used, sanitary measures, shape of the feeding tube, and the possibility of contracting bacterial contamination should also be kept in mind while administering a thickener unto a feeding solution. Additional security measures should be taken while using additives unto feeding formulas of children under 5, especially neonates. A premeasured administration test followed after videofluoroscopy, and the swallowing measurements derived from the same can lead to the prevention of any possible health conflicts associated with tube feeding.

Types and Applications of Thickeners

Dependent on two bases, i.e. starch base and gum base, thickening agents are available in three forms – gels, liquids, and powders. Some companies are providing gluten-free and carbohydrate-free variations. The best way of finding the most suitable thickener, the measurement and consistencies are to consult with a General Physician. Follow the instructions by the manufacturers (which you will either find in an accompanying manual or on the back of the thickener’s container). The most popular viscosities a thickener is administered as are syrup-like (pours like honey or single cream), custard-like (easy to drop, Non-Newtonian, jelly-like consistency) and pudding-like (stays put like a spoonful of whipped cream or mascarpone). Gum based thickeners are the safest bait as it doesn’t thin over time due to the presence of saliva or any other fluid (i.e. water), hence preventing complications like regurgitation and asphyxiation.

Feed thickeners are mainly used for patients requiring acute care due to multiple complications like Dysphagia, Cerebral Palsy, Seizures, GORD, Lissencephaly, Hydrocephalus, Visual and Hearing Impairments, Chronic Lung Disease, Congenital Heart Disease, Alagille Syndrome, Congenital Cytomegalovirus, Hirschsprung’s Disease, Pneumonia, to more common factors like Global Development Delay, Severe Learning Disability and General Sickness (common flu, congestion, etc.).

Proper Instances of Administering

Thickened Enteral Formulas A nutritionally enriched, clear thickener would be a wise choice for improved cohesion. Any food solution should be given some time to mix properly with an additive – the consistency might not look like as per the requirement soon after it’s mixed. Excessive addition of fluid thickeners might lead the food solution to form lumps; in that case, the answer must be to discard and replace it with a new batch wholly. Make sure the solution bears the required consistency before each administration. Patients having a history of complications regarding digestion, enterokinase deficiency, gastric motility, and fluid absorption should be brought into serious consideration before being considered for tube feeding.

Benefits Derived from Using Thickened Enteral Formulas

The use of TEF (Thickened Enteral Formulas) has shown a significant improvement in the life of the patients. With an additional positive effect on following factors like blood glucose level, skin issues surrounding wounds created by percutaneous endoscopy gastrostomy puncture, a reduced outflow rate of gastric contents (hence preventing more significant digestive complications), reduced risk of dehydration, and an increased prevention rate of nausea and vomiting. The proper use of prescribed thickeners is further useful in reducing malnutrition, choking, excessive perspiration, aspiration, promoting safety and enhancing the quality of life of the patient in question and their family – all of the foresaid factoids being conclusive of the data derived from testaments provided by renowned medical practitioners and dietitians.

Here’s an assortment of some of the best food thickeners for elderlies and infants for your convenience; wishing you a happy and healthy journey ahead!