Specialized formulas for enteral nutrition support.

Enteral or tube feeding is the standard nutritional support modality for patients with a functioning gastrointestinal tract. Expanding knowledge of the role of nutrients in disease has prompted the development of specialized nutrients for patients with specific diseases. Selection of the appropriate formula is critical in maximizing the response to nutrition therapy. Knowledge of related research and the underlying disease process are factors in the selection of appropriate formulas for specialized enteral nutrition support. Careful monitoring of the nutritional and metabolic processes associated with specific diseases is the key to the successful use of the formulas.