Nutritional
strategies and regimens are important components of the treatment
and ongoing management of SBS. These regimens vary depending on the severity
of the condition and the ability of the remaining intestine to absorb
nutrients. In some people, oral nutrition may simply be restricted and
supplemented, depending on individual nutritional needs. There are other
people in whom the length and condition of the bowel are insufficient
to provide the body with the nutrients it requires through oral feeding.
This results in the need for intravenous nutrition, usually through a
catheter inserted in a large vein that has been surgically adapted for
this purpose (TPN, or total parenteral nutrition). It is obvious that
the type of nutritional regimen being used will have a considerable effect
on quality of life. Since many social activities center around meals and
eating and drinking, people whose ability to ingest food has been impaired
often feel uncomfortable and self-conscious in these situations. Other
areas of life potentially affected by these nutritional requirements are
working outside the home, outings for such activities as shopping or going
to the movies, independence, and relationships with family and friends.
This information
is provided as a general educational service
and is not intended to recommend any particular treatment plan
or to replace the advice of physicians. It is important that patients
seek and rely on the advice of a healthcare professional
about their individual medical conditions.
