Which of the following is a benefit of enteral nutrition?

The preservation of mucosal barrier integrity is a key benefit of enteral nutrition. When patients receive enteral nutrition, which typically involves delivering nutrients directly into the gastrointestinal tract through a tube, it helps maintain the health and function of the intestinal mucosa. This is important because a healthy mucosal barrier is crucial for nutrient absorption and protecting against infections and other complications related to a compromised gut.

With enteral nutrition, the stimulation of the gut through nutrient delivery promotes trophic effects on the mucosal cells, aiding in maintaining their structure and function. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who may be at risk for gut atrophy or injury due to reasons such as prolonged fasting, critical illness, or surgical recovery.

In contrast, other options do not align with the advantages of enteral nutrition. Increased risks of complications, higher costs, and the need for more extensive digestion are not characteristics typically associated with enteral feeding. Instead, enteral nutrition is often utilized in clinical settings for its safety, lower cost compared to parenteral nutrition, and the lower risk of complications compared to total parenteral nutrition, thereby underscoring the significance of mucosal integrity preservation.