Monitor gastrointestinal tolerance in children who have switched to an “enteral formula with food‐derived ingredients”: A national, multicenter retrospective chart review (RICIMIX study)

BACKGROUND: Enteral tube feeding intolerances, such as diarrhea, are commonly reported in children. In the pediatric population, interest is growing in the use of blended diets for the management of enteral feeding intolerances. Fiber within a blended diet stimulates the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which in turn produce short‐chain fatty acids, which are utilized as energy substrates for enterocytes. Enteral formula manufacturers have responded to this trend towards “real‐food” blended diets and developed an enteral formula with food‐derived ingredients. The aim of this study was to collect data relating to feed tolerance in children who had switched to an “enteral formula with food‐derived ingredients.” METHODS: A national multicenter retrospective study. RESULTS: Dietitians collected data from 43 medically unwell children between March 2021 and July 2021. Significant improvements were reported in children who had switched to an “enteral formula with food‐derived ingredients” in retching 17 of 18 children (95%), flatulence 6 of 8 children (85%), loose stools 10 of 11 children (90%), and constipation 10 of 11 children (90%). These improvements in gastrointestinal symptoms were reflected in weight change during the one month period measurements were collected (baseline, 19.5 kg [SD, 9]; 1 month, 20.1 kg [SD, 9]; P = 0.002). CONCLUSION: We have observed beneficial outcomes in medically complex children who have switched to an “enteral formula with food‐derived ingredients.” Our data should motivate healthcare professionals to implement more research to better evaluate the clinical impact and mechanisms of action of blended diets and enteral formulas with food‐derived ingredients.