22/05/2026
“Being able to eat by mouth is a gift. Let’s cherish it.”
TPN means Total Parenteral Nutrition. Simply put, it means feeding through the vein instead of through the mouth or stomach.
It is used when someone cannot eat normally or when their stomach or intestines are not working properly, either temporarily or permanently.
A special liquid containing nutrients like sugar, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals is passed through a drip directly into the bloodstream.
You can think of it as “feeding the body through the bloodstream,” so in the case of the child mentioned in this video, he can still get the energy and nutrients needed to grow and develop.
As dietitians, this is one of the specialised areas we are trained to work in.
We assess patients’ nutritional needs, calculate the nutrients and fluids required, formulate TPN prescriptions, guide feeding schedules, and monitor weight and blood test results to ensure nutrition needs are met, prevent complications, and support recovery and growth.
In temporary cases, some people may eventually return to eating through the mouth or stomach. But in permanent intestinal failure, feeding through the vein may be required for life.
You have intestines that are working well. You can taste food, eat different kinds of food, and feel full after eating. Never take these things for granted.
Be grateful.🙏
