Prebiotic prophylaxis of abdominal bloating in mechanically ventilated patients fed through nasogastric tubes: A randomised clinical trial

Abstract

Objective: Enteral nutrition is the first choice of nutritional support of patients undergoing mechanical ventilation. Gastrointestinal disorders, especially abdominal bloating, are commonly seen in this group of patients. Given the prevalence of bloating and its perceived severity, the lack of an effective method for the control or treatment of this problem during mechanical ventilation is urgently felt. Materials and Methods: This double-blind, randomised, controlled clinical trial was conducted on 60 mechanically ventilated patients divided in two groups (n = 30). The study group received fenugreek seed (FS) powder by gavage twice a day besides the routine care. The control group only received routine care. Abdominal bloating, consisting of abdominal pain intensity, abdominal circumference, vomiting, frequency deification, bowel sounds and gastric residual volume, was measured at the baseline and every day for 5 days. Results: By the end of study, abdominal bloating decreased significantly in the study group compared to controls (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Given that even a slight reduction in symptoms can produce positive public health consequences, daily diet with FSs is recommended for critically ill patients.

Keywords

• abdominal bloating
• fenugreek seeds and gut bacteria
• prebiotic