Abstract

A FOOD THOUGHT FOR IMPLEMENTING VARIOUS PATHYA KALPANAS AS AN ENTERAL FEED IN CRITICALLY ILL PATIENTS ADMITTED IN EMERGENCY UNITS

Dr. Vikhil Darak* and Dr. Anupama Shimpi

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Abstract

Malnutrition (sometimes called under nutrition) is the state in which a deficiency either of total energy or of protein (or other nutrients) leads to a reduction in body cell mass and organ dysfunction. It can be the result of any combination of inadequate intake, reduced absorption or increased requirements. Malnutrition has been shown to be strongly linked to increased length of stay in hospital, increased incidence of complications and increased mortality. Nutritional status in critically ill patients can be difficult to assess. Probably the most useful measure of nutritional status is a targeted history and examination. Enteral nutrition is strongly preferred over parenteral nutrition, if the gastrointestinal (GI) tract (from the jejunum distally) is functional and accessible without contraindications to its use. Pathya Kalpana, which are prescribed for patients. Contain same basic preparations like Manda, Peya, Yavagu etc. have been described, which are easily digestible and have curative effects too. Moreover, commercially available feeds in the hospital are limited and not much nutritious, to add-on the same Pathya Kalpana’s & various medicated Yavagu’s explained by Charaka can be taken into account. Though there is a great difference of dietary applications mentioned in the ancient classical Ayurvedic texts and in present digital Age. The concepts of nutrition and dietetics is a treasure trove in Ayurveda, which needs further exploration.

Keywords: Enteral nutrition, Pathya Kalpana, critically ill, Emergency units.