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Improved selenium, carnitine and taurine status in an enterally fed population
M H Fischer1, W N Adkins, P Scaman
1Central Wisconsin Center for the Developmentally Disabled, Madison 53704.
Summary
Enteral feedings lacking selenium, carnitine, and taurine led to deficiencies in nonambulant adults. Supplementation normalized blood levels of selenium and carnitine within 9 weeks, improving nutrient status.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Nutrition
- Nutritional Biochemistry
Background:
- Enteral feeding is crucial for nonambulant individuals.
- Commercial enteral formulas may lack essential micronutrients like selenium, carnitine, and taurine.
- Prolonged use of deficient formulas can lead to nutrient depletion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of long-term, low-selenium, carnitine, and taurine enteral feeding on nutrient status.
- To evaluate the efficacy of a fortified enteral product in correcting deficiencies.
Main Methods:
- Ten nonambulant, gastrostomy-fed males received standard enteral feedings for an average of 59 months.
- Nutrient levels (selenium, carnitine, taurine) were measured in blood and urine.
- Participants were then given a fortified enteral product for 9 weeks.
Main Results:
- Baseline blood levels of selenium, carnitine, and taurine were below normal ranges.
- Urinary excretion of carnitine and taurine was also reduced.
- After 9 weeks of fortified feeding, blood selenium and carnitine levels significantly increased and normalized.
Conclusions:
- Long-term enteral feeding with standard formulas can cause deficiencies in selenium, carnitine, and taurine.
- Supplementation with a fortified enteral product effectively corrects these deficiencies.
- Fortified enteral nutrition is vital for maintaining adequate nutrient status in vulnerable populations.