Critically ill patients often face challenges with muscle loss, which can impact their recovery process. To address this issue, researchers from the University of Adelaide conducted a trial to investigate the effects of a high-protein nutritional formula on patient outcomes.
The TARGET Protein Trial involved 3,397 patients from intensive care units in Australia and New Zealand. These patients were randomly assigned to receive either a higher protein (100g/L) formula or a lower protein (63g/L) formula through enteral nutrition. Over a 12-month period, patients were given one formula for three months before switching to the other formula for the next three months.
The results of the trial, published in JAMA by lead author Matthew Summers and Associate Professor Lee-anne Chapple, revealed that the higher protein formula did not significantly improve patient outcomes. There was no difference in the time patients spent outside of the hospital or their status after the three-month mark. Additionally, secondary measurements such as ventilation duration, ICU stay, and hospital discharge destination showed no improvement with the higher protein formula.
Interestingly, the study found that the higher protein formula may have negative effects on patients with acute kidney failure in the ICU. This suggests that caution should be exercised when providing higher protein amounts to patients, especially those with kidney injuries.
Despite these findings, Associate Professor Chapple noted that further research is needed to explore the potential benefits of higher protein delivery during the recovery phase of critical illness. The team at the University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital will continue their research to determine the optimal timing for protein interventions to enhance long-term recovery from critical illness.
In conclusion, while the study did not show a benefit from increased protein delivery in the early stages of critical illness, it opens up avenues for future research to optimize nutritional interventions for ICU patients. These findings contribute valuable insights to the field of intensive care nutrition and pave the way for improved patient care strategies in the future.
