Abstract
Guidelines informing energy and protein doses for critically ill patients are based largely on low-quality evidence and expert consensus recommendations [1, 2], but more recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have provided new data. Thus, we summarize here the current evidence base and provide advice concerning energy and protein provision during critical illness.
Conclusions
In critically ill patients, we suggest that energy and protein be delivered progressively in stable or recovering patients. If a patient deteriorates, regardless of days spent in the ICU, low-dose energy and protein should be delivered to maintain basic body functions until stabilized. More research is underway to advance precision nutrition within critical care, adapting to individual needs by assessing each patient’s metabolic state, inflammatory status, and degree of organ dysfunction.
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