Are nursing home residents on enteral feeding in north dublin receiving adequate vitamin d during the covid-19 pandemic?

ABSTRACT

Rationale Vitamin D may be protective during the Covid-19 pandemic1 but levels in the Irish population are typically low2. Daily supplementation of 20μg Vitamin D is recommended3. Our aim was to assess if vitamin D content in enteral feeding regimens of nursing home residents were adequate. Methods: Vitamin D intake were assessed by calculating the content of enteral feeding regimens and additional vitamin D supplements prescribed. It was not feasible to measure serum vitamin D levels. Results: Forty-two tube fed residents were reviewed. Average age 58 years (range 25-94 years), 52% male, average duration on enteral feeding 46 months (range 1-102 months). Less than half (43%) ate oral diet. Enteral feeding provided average 18.7μg daily (range 6.2-50μg), 3 residents received <10 μg/d and 14 receiving >20 μg/d. There was no significant difference in intakes between those on oral diet or nil per oral (18.6μg versus 18.9μg). Eleven residents (26%), were taking additional vitamin D supplements. Conclusion: The majority of nursing home residents on longterm tube feeding reviewed were receiving adequate intakes of vitamin D. Enteral feeding provides a reliable source of vitamin D in comparison to usual dietary intakes of nursing home residents. The vitamin D content of the enteral feeding regimen should be discussed with the dietitian before additional supplements are prescribed to avoid excessive intakes. Specific recommendations on vitamin D requirements for adults on tube feeding, particularly in residential settings are required. References 1. McKenna MJ and Flynn MAT. (2020) Covid-19, Cocooning and Vitamin D Intake Requirements. Irish Medical Journal Vol 113;No. 5;P79 2. Cashman KD, Muldowney S, McNulty B et al. (2013) Vitamin D status of Irish adults findings from the National Adult Nutrition Survey. British Journal of Nutrition 109, 1248–1256 3. Laird E and Kenny RA. (2020) Vitamin D deficiency in Ireland – implications for COVID-19. Results from the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA) Disclosure of Interest None declared