Comparison of Enteral Versus Parenteral Feeding in Healthy Human Subjects

Comparison of Enteral Versus Parenteral Feeding in Healthy Human Subjects

Literature suggests that route of feeding and/or certain nutrients may cause alterations in the body's immune cells. Immune cells help protect the body and fight infection/disease. Tube feeding (TF) is a method of delivering nutrition directly to the stomach/intestines via a small tube. The immune system may respond differently when receiving continuous TF as compared to receiving intermittent TF. Heart rate variability (HRV, the intervals between heartbeats) is a measurement of the nervous system's response to a stress/illness. The differences in immune cells and/or HRV may influence how the body reacts to complications such as infection.

Inclusion Criteria:

• General good health as demonstrated by medical history, physical& laboratory tests
• Age between 18 and 40 years
• Written informed consent prior to the performance of any study related procedures

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, or immunological, renal, hepatic, endocrine, neurologic, heart disease or hypertension
• Any medication taken in past 48 hrs (except birth control)
• Recent history of alcohol or drug abuse
• Unable to provide written informed consent
• Exposure to any experimental agent or procedure within 30 days of study
• Pregnant or breast-feeding