Effects of diet temperature on tolerance of enteral feedings

Nasogastric tube feedings administered at three temperatures were studied for effect on gastric motility, total gastrointestinal transit time, diarrhea, and subjective sensations in normal volunteers. Following a period of base-line observation, six volunteers received tube feedings at one of three temperatures: cold (8-11 degrees C), room (23-26 degrees C), or warm (36-39 degrees C). There was no significant difference between the temperature of the feeding and gastric motility patterns in selected postfeeding periods. Administration of diets at all three temperatures resulted in a similar decrease in the frequency of gastric contraction and similar patterns of return of gastric activity. After cold feedings two subjects experienced cramping accompanied by diarrhea. No gastrointestinal disturbances were reported following warmer infusions.