Tube Feeding Basics

Written By Cristen Lindsay

What is tube feeding?

Tube feeding (also called enteral nutrition) is a way to provide nutrition when eating by mouth is not possible, not enough, or unsafe. Liquid formula is delivered through a soft tube into the stomach or small intestine. It helps people get the calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals they need to heal and stay strong.

Tube feeding is not a last resort — it is a medical tool that supports recovery and improves quality of life.


Types of feeding tubes

There are several types of feeding tubes. Your medical team chooses a tube based on your medical condition and how long you may need support.

Common types:

  • NG tube (nasogastric) — goes from the nose to the stomach

  • G-tube (gastrostomy tube) — placed directly in the stomach

  • J-tube (jejunostomy tube) — placed in the small intestine

  • PEG tube (percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy) — a common long-term option

If you don’t know what type of tube you have, ask your provider — knowing the tube type helps us create the best feeding plan.

Why do people need tube feeding?

Tube feeding may be recommended for:

  • Stroke or neurological conditions

  • Swallowing problems (dysphagia)

  • Cancer treatment

  • GI surgeries

  • Head and neck cancer

  • Severe weight loss or malnutrition

  • Recovery after hospitalization

You may need tube feeding temporarily or long-term, depending on your medical needs.


What does a tube feeding plan include?

A nutrition support plan is much more than “choosing a formula.” It includes:

1. Formula type

There are many options — standard formulas, peptide formulas, fiber formulas, high-calorie formulas, and disease-specific options.

2. Rate and volume

How fast and how much formula you receive each day.

3. Feeding schedule

Continuous (24-hour pump), overnight feeding, or bolus feeds.

4. Hydration

Water flushes keep the tube clean and prevent dehydration.

A dietitian who specializes in tube feeding helps adjust all of these based on symptoms, weight changes, and lab results.


Common tube feeding symptoms (and what they mean)

Small changes in how you feel can help identify when adjustments are needed.

Watch for:

  • Nausea

  • Diarrhea

  • Constipation

  • Bloating

  • Reflux

  • Feeling overly full

  • Dehydration or dizziness

These symptoms are not “just part of tube feeding.” They usually mean something can be changed — and often the solution is simple.


When should you contact a nutrition support dietitian?

You should reach out if:

  • You recently started tube feeding

  • You are changing formulas or feeding schedules

  • You have ongoing symptoms

  • You notice sudden weight loss or gain

  • You were recently discharged from the hospital

A nutrition support dietitian uses clinical experience + lab trends + real-world tolerance patterns to improve comfort and outcomes.

Working with Nutrition Support Rx

At Nutrition Support Rx, I provide outpatient support for patients using tube feeding at home or in care facilities. I:

  • Review current formula and schedule

  • Troubleshoot symptoms

  • Coordinate with physicians, SLPs, and pharmacy

  • Provide written recommendations

  • Support caregivers with education and planning

I believe tube feeding should feel manageable, safe, and understood.

Ready to get help?

If you are interested in support, you can:

  • Schedule a consultation

  • Fax referrals securely

  • Email for questions (HIPAA-secure)

Nutrition Support Rx proudly serves Clovis, Fresno, and the Central Valley.

Medicare and major insurance plans accepted.

What to bring to your first appointment

  • List of current formula(s)

  • Feeding schedule

  • Hydration plan (water flushes)

  • Any recent labs

  • Insurance cards

  • Contact info for your doctor or home health team

Cristen Lindsay
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TPN Basics for Patients & Caregivers