Historical highlights of the development of enteral nutrition.

The most significant events and discoveries regarding the development of enteral nutrition (EN) dating back to 1500 BC are chronicled. A more detailed description and discussion of subsequent more recent progress during the past two decades is focused primarily on 3 of the most dynamic areas of endeavor: tight glycemic control; timing and combining of EN and total parenteral nutrition to meet early target nutrition goals in intensive care unit patients; and the role, advances, and future of immunonutrition. An abridged classification of solutions for enteral feeding, and a brief outline of key prudent oral dietary guidelines are also presented.