elemental formula
A specialized enteral nutrition product containing pre-digested nutrients for patients with severe malabsorption or inflammatory bowel conditions.
Full Definition
Elemental formula represents the most hydrolyzed form of enteral nutrition, containing amino acids, simple sugars, and fatty acids that require minimal digestion for absorption. These formulations are designed for patients with severe malabsorption, extensive small bowel resection, severe inflammatory bowel disease, or food allergies where intact proteins cannot be tolerated. In pediatric gastroenterology, elemental formulas serve both therapeutic and diagnostic purposes, often used in elimination diets for eosinophilic esophagitis or as primary therapy for Crohn's disease. Despite nutritional completeness, palatability issues often necessitate tube feeding for administration.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from hydrolyzed formulas which contain peptides rather than free amino acids.
In Context
- "The patient was transitioned to elemental formula for management of severe short gut syndrome." — Nutrition consultation note
- "Elemental formula trial resulted in symptom resolution, confirming food protein allergy." — Allergy evaluation report