What should be prioritized if the gastrointestinal tract is functional?

Prioritizing enteral nutrition when the gastrointestinal tract is functional is grounded in the principle that it utilizes the natural digestive processes of the body, promoting optimal absorption of nutrients. Enteral nutrition involves delivering nutrients directly to the gastrointestinal tract, which allows for the utilization of the digestive system's enzymes and motility, thus ensuring nutrient efficacy and absorption.

Using the gastrointestinal tract is advantageous because it can maintain gut integrity and function, support immune health, and may reduce the risk of complications associated with parenteral nutrition, such as infections and metabolic disturbances. The enteral route is typically more physiologically reflective of how nutrients would be processed in a healthy individual, and it can be tailored to the individual’s specific needs.

In contrast, parenteral nutrition bypasses the gastrointestinal tract entirely, which is necessary when the GI system is non-functional. Oral supplements may be beneficial but are generally considered an ancillary option when the patient can’t meet their nutritional needs through regular meals. Increased physical activity is valuable for overall health but doesn't directly address nutrition needs and would typically come into play after adequate nutrition is established. Therefore, enteral nutrition is the most direct and effective means of providing essential nutrients if the gastrointestinal tract is functional.