Evaluation of a specific enteral tube feeding formula in diabetic patients with chronic neurodegenerative diseases: the NutriEnd study

Abstract

Introduction: patients with neurodegenerative diseases and diabetes are at high risk of malnutrition. Enteral tube feeding improves prognosis by ensuring a continuous supply of essential nutrients, optimizing glycemic control, wound healing, and immune function. Objectives: to evaluate the effectiveness of an enteral nutrition formula in diabetic patients with chronic neurodegenerative diseases. Methods: this 12-month, multicenter, prospective observational study included 67 patients aged over 18 years, with chronic neurodegenerative disease and diabetes. Nutritional status (using the MNA-SF test, anthropometric variables, and biochemical parameters), pressure ulcers, tolerance, and adherence to the nutrition regimen were assessed. Results: significant improvements were observed in patient weight and body mass index (p < 0.0001). Nutritional status also improved significantly (MNA-SF score: from 4.16 ± 2.42 to 9.28 ± 2.66 at the end of the study; p < 0.0001). At 12 months, glucose decreased from 142.27 ± 29.01 mg/dl to 122.45 ± 20.94 mg/dl (p < 0.0001), and HbA1c levels dropped by 9.3 % (p < 0.0001). Urea levels decreased from 46.24 ± 16.67 mg/dl to 35.11 ± 19.75 mg/dl (p = 0.0078). The prevalence and size of pressure ulcers decreased (p < 0.01). Gastrointestinal tolerance was high, with a 98.5 % adherence rate to the prescribed enteral nutrition regimen. Conclusions: the enteral nutrition formula improved glycemic control, nutritional status, renal function, and pressure ulcers outcomes, showing high tolerance and adherence. The results suggest clinical benefits in managing diabetes in patients with neurodegenerative diseases, although additional studies are needed.