Effect of parenteral nutrition on oral intake

Oral intake following a high density oral supplement (preload) is lower tha n that after a low density preload. We studied a similar effect of parenter al nutrition on oral intake. Twelve neurologically intact children (8-16 yr ) with orthopedic problems and no concurrent illness were included in the s tudy. As part of the inclusion criteria, all patients had documented energy intake for breakfast of +/-10% on 3 consecutive days. On the fourth day pa renteral nutrition equal to 50% of the mean energy intake for breakfast was provided for 4 hours before breakfast and energy intake measured. The comp osition of the parenteral energy was matched with that of the oral intake. The mean oral energy intake without (470 +/- 90 kcal) and with (458 +/- 64 kcal) parenteral nutrition preload was comparable (p >0.05). Our conclusion is that parenteral nutrition does not affect oral intake in patients witho ut underlying gastrointestinal disease.