Fiber in feeding tubes may ease opioid constipation in ICU

This study looked at whether adding fiber to liquid food given through a tube can help prevent constipation caused by strong painkillers (opioids) in intensive care patients who are on breathing machines. 80 adults took part, and researchers compared those who got fiber-enriched feedings with those who got fiber-free feedings. The main goal was to see if fiber helped patients have their first bowel movement sooner and reduced the need for enemas.