What is Jevity? An Overview of a Complete Nutritional Formula
Jevity is a ready-to-use liquid nutritional supplement from Abbott Nutrition that provides complete and balanced nutrition. It is formulated for medical use and is available in different caloric densities, such as 1.0 Cal, 1.2 Cal, and 1.5 Cal per milliliter. The key feature of Jevity is its patented blend of dietary fiber, which helps support healthy gastrointestinal function. The formula is also lactose- and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of patients. While it can be consumed orally, Jevity is most often used as a tube-feeding formula under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Core Functions and Medical Applications
The primary purpose of the drink Jevity is to address nutritional deficiencies in specific patient populations. The concentrated calories and high protein content help patients gain and maintain a healthy weight, which is critical for recovery and overall well-being.
- Malnutrition or risk of malnutrition: For individuals who are unable to eat enough to meet their nutritional needs, whether due to illness, injury, or age-related conditions, Jevity provides a comprehensive source of essential nutrients.
- Tube Feeding (Enteral Nutrition): As a fiber-fortified formula, it is ideal for patients on short-term or long-term tube feeding, helping to moderate bowel function and reduce common gastrointestinal issues.
- Fluid or Volume Restrictions: For patients who need to limit their fluid intake but still require high caloric density, Jevity's concentrated formulas (like 1.5 Cal) deliver more calories in a smaller volume.
- Altered Taste Perception: The unflavored variants can be used for patients whose sense of taste is altered, allowing them to receive necessary nutrition orally without discomfort.
- Before and After Surgery: Pre- and post-operative patients often benefit from the additional calories and protein to support healing and recovery.
The Role of Fiber in Jevity
The patented fiber blend in Jevity is a distinguishing feature that supports digestive health. It includes a combination of soluble and insoluble fiber, along with fructooligosaccharides (FOS).
- Soluble Fiber: Dissolves in water and forms a gel-like substance, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and promote a feeling of fullness.
- Insoluble Fiber: Adds bulk to stool and helps food pass more quickly through the digestive system, which is crucial for preventing constipation in tube-fed patients.
- Fructooligosaccharides (FOS): These are prebiotics that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon, contributing to a healthy gut microbiome.
Jevity 1.2 Cal vs. Jevity 1.5 Cal: A Comparison
Different Jevity formulations are available to meet varying nutritional needs. The primary differences lie in their caloric density and protein content. Here is a comparison of two common variants, based on a 1.0-liter volume:
| Feature | Jevity 1.2 Cal | Jevity 1.5 Cal |
|---|---|---|
| Caloric Density | 1.2 Cal/mL | 1.5 Cal/mL |
| Calories (per liter) | 1200 Calories | 1500 Calories |
| Protein | 55.5g per liter | 62.8g per liter |
| Dietary Fiber | 22g per liter | 15g per liter |
| Primary Use | General complete nutrition with high protein and fiber | Calorically dense nutrition for weight gain or fluid restriction |
| Beneficial For | Patients needing overall increased calories and protein with bowel function support | Patients needing significant calorie increases in a limited volume |
| Fluid Requirement | Moderate fluid intake needs | Patients with fluid volume restrictions |
How Jevity Supports Recovery
The complete nutritional profile of Jevity is designed to aid the body's recovery processes. The high-quality protein is vital for tissue repair and maintaining lean body mass, which can be lost during illness or prolonged hospitalization. The included vitamins and minerals, meeting or exceeding 100% of the recommended daily intake in certain volumes, prevent deficiencies that could hinder recovery. Moreover, for patients undergoing surgery, a nutritionally robust diet before and after the procedure has been shown to improve outcomes and reduce complications.
Conclusion
In summary, the drink Jevity serves as a comprehensive and balanced liquid nutritional supplement intended for individuals with disease-related malnutrition or specific dietary needs, often under medical supervision. Its formulations, enriched with a beneficial fiber blend, are available in varying caloric densities to accommodate different patient requirements. Whether used for oral consumption or via tube feeding, Jevity provides essential calories, protein, and micronutrients while actively supporting healthy bowel function. As with any specialized medical product, its use should be determined and monitored by a qualified healthcare provider to ensure it aligns with a patient's specific health goals. For more detailed clinical information and data sheets, resources from the manufacturer, Abbott Nutrition, can be consulted for specific Jevity formulations.
