An unintended consequence of artificial feeding

Aim: Re-feeding syndrome is an under-recognised complication associated with nutritional supplementation following a period of starvation or malnourishment. Prolonged malnutrition leads to protein catabolism and phosphate depletion; introduction of carbohydrate leads to an anabolic state causing large electrolyte shifts, salt and fluid retention which untreated can lead to death.
Source: International Journal of Surgery - Category: Surgery Authors: Source Type: research