Nutrition support in the ICU: current evidence and evolving standards - PubMed
3 hours ago
- #critical care nutrition
- #clinical nutrition guidelines
- #ICU feeding strategies
- Nutritional support in the ICU is crucial, but optimal macronutrient delivery remains controversial.
- During the acute phase, low-calorie and low-protein strategies may improve recovery and reduce complications, avoiding harm from overfeeding.
- Increasing protein delivery has not consistently improved outcomes and may be harmful, especially in acute kidney injury.
- A cautious, individualized approach is recommended, focusing on avoiding overfeeding and monitoring tolerance and complications.
- In the recovery phase, nutritional priorities shift to restoring lean body mass, but optimal targets are still undefined.
- Observational studies report inadequate energy and protein delivery post-acute phase due to interruptions and intolerance.
- A multidisciplinary, protocol-driven approach emphasizing individualized support is advised.
- Future research should define phase-specific targets, identify metabolic biomarkers, and evaluate long-term functional outcomes.