Could feeding ICU patients in short bursts save their muscles?
NCT ID NCT03587870
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether giving protein-rich formula in short bursts (intermittent feeding) is better than the standard continuous drip for preventing muscle loss in critically ill patients. 113 ICU adults expected to stay at least 5 days were randomly assigned to one of the two feeding methods. Researchers measured how quickly patients reached their daily protein goal and tracked muscle changes with ultrasound and biopsies.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Fresubin Intensive (protein-rich enteral nutrition formula)
What this could lead to
If intermittent feeding works better, it could become a simpler, more natural way to prevent muscle loss in ICU patients and speed up recovery.
What could go wrong
This is a small pilot study, so results may not be conclusive. The two groups also get different protein targets, which could affect comparisons.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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University Hospital Basel, operative ICU
Basel, Canton of Basel-City, 4031, Switzerland