Define Fat needs in Nutrient Requirement and Dietary Management?
As we have learnt earlier on enteral and parenteral feedings; administration of lipids should be carried out carefully in all critically ill patients. A careful monitoring of immune function, feeding tolerance and serum triglycerides is required during lipid administration. Most of the patients are able to tolerate around 12-15% of the total calories in the form of lipids. Structured lipids and medium chain triglycerides are currently being preferred. A low fat diet is preferred during the initial phases of recovery in view of its association with improved respiratory function, reduced incidence of pneumonia, faster recovery. During the later phases of anabolism (near discharge) the fat intake may be normalized. In view of the impaired gastro- intestinal function among many patients it is advisable to lay emphasis on foods rich in emulsified fat and medium chain triglycerides (MCT's).