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Calorie and Protein Deficit in the ICU

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Abstract

Underfeeding is a common occurrence in critical illness. This issue is of high concern, as inadequate nutrient delivery leads to loss of lean body mass. Additionally, calculating calorie and protein needs for these patients often proves to be a difficult task due to lack of standardization and appropriate application of many formulas. Many studies have demonstrated negative outcomes from underfeeding, including increased infectious complications, longer lengths of stay, and increased mortality. Interestingly, newer, better designed studies have shown a protective effect of underfeeding in critical illness. However, a majority of the literature has limitations that require further interpretation of results. Additional research is needed to accurately determine effects of underfeeding in critical illness to guide practice.

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Abbreviations

ASPEN:

American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition

BMI:

Body Mass Index

GRV:

Gastric Residual Volume

ICU:

Intensive Care Unit

kcal:

Kilocalorie

RDA:

Recommended Dietary Allowance

SCCM:

Society of Critical Care Medicine

TICACOS:

Tight Calorie Control Study

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Correspondence to Anne Coltman .

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Coltman, A., Peterson, S., Sowa, D. (2015). Calorie and Protein Deficit in the ICU. In: Rajendram, R., Preedy, V.R., Patel, V.B. (eds) Diet and Nutrition in Critical Care. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-7836-2_21

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-7836-2_21

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, New York, NY

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-4614-7837-9

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-4614-7836-2

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