Functional evaluations of a new type formula that features a state change from liquid to semi-solidified state depending upon pH

Abstract

Summary Background & aims Some problems such as gastroesophageal reflux, vomiting and diarrhea are cited complications associated with enteral nutrition. Half-solidified formulas can reduce these problems; however, such formulas cannot be administered through nasogastric tubes, and are, therefore, not as convenient as liquid formulas. To solve these problems, we have developed a new type formula which includes the alginate. It has the functions of both liquid and half-solidified type. In this study, we performed functional evaluations of this new type formula. Methods The state changes of three type formulas in artificial gastric/intestinal juice were compared by evaluating the “solidification rate”. Moreover, in rat stomach, state changes of each formula were evaluated by studying the “intragastric holding rate” and the “intragastric solidification rate”. Results The new type formula could be administered through nasogastric tubes. It changed into a semi-solidified state in artificial gastric juice and liquefied in artificial intestinal juice. In rats, the intragastric solidification rate of the new type formula was 79 ± 3%, and the intragastric holding rate was 80 ± 6%. These results were similar to those observed for the half-solidified formula. Conclusion The new type formula (A) can be administered through nasogastric tubes, (B) changes into the “semi-solidified state” from the liquid state in rat stomach, and (C) changes back to the “liquid state” in intestinal juice. The new type formula changed its state depending on pH. These results suggest that the new type formula has the advantages of both liquid and half-solidified formulas.