Jevity is a brand of fiber-fortified, liquid nutritional formulas developed by Abbott Nutrition for individuals who require specialized dietary support. The primary users of Jevity are patients with medical conditions that prevent them from consuming adequate calories and nutrients orally, or those with disease-related malnutrition. It is available in different caloric densities, such as Jevity 1.0, Jevity 1.2 Cal, and Jevity 1.5 Cal, to cater to various nutritional requirements, whether for supplemental or sole-source feeding.
Patients on Long-Term or Short-Term Tube Feeding
One of the most common applications for Jevity is in tube feeding, which can be short-term or long-term. Patients who have undergone surgery, experienced a traumatic injury, or have conditions affecting their ability to swallow safely (dysphagia) often rely on enteral nutrition. Jevity's fiber content helps manage common gastrointestinal issues that can arise from tube feeding, such as diarrhea and constipation, by promoting normal bowel function. The formula is administered via tubes inserted into the nose (nasogastric) or stomach (gastrostomy).
Individuals with Chronic Illnesses
Chronic illnesses can significantly impact a person's nutritional status. Patients with conditions such as cancer, short bowel syndrome, malabsorption disorders, or cystic fibrosis often suffer from malnutrition and require concentrated, high-protein nutrition to support their health and recovery. Jevity 1.2 Cal and Jevity 1.5 Cal, with their higher caloric and protein densities, are frequently used to help these patients gain and maintain a healthy weight. The complete and balanced profile of vitamins and minerals also supports overall well-being.
Support for Wound Healing
For patients with wounds, adequate protein intake is crucial for tissue maintenance and repair. Jevity's high-protein formulations provide the necessary building blocks to support the healing process, especially in cases of pressure ulcers or post-surgical wounds. In addition to protein, the formula delivers essential vitamins and minerals that are vital for a strong immune response, further aiding in recovery.
Elderly Individuals
Many elderly individuals experience a decline in appetite or have difficulty eating solid foods due to issues like dental problems or altered taste perception. For these patients, Jevity can be used as a sole or supplemental source of nutrition, either orally or via a feeding tube. The ready-to-use liquid format makes it a convenient and easy-to-digest option that helps ensure they receive the energy and nutrients required to support daily function and prevent muscle loss.
Oral Feeding for Altered Taste Perception
Some Jevity formulations are specifically noted for their suitability for oral consumption, especially by patients with altered taste perception. This allows them to receive essential nutrition without the taste of the formula becoming a deterrent. The unflavored variety, in particular, offers versatility for mixing with other foods or consuming directly.
A Comparison of Jevity Formulas
Jevity comes in various formulations to meet different patient needs. The following table highlights the key differences between the most common versions.
| Feature | Jevity 1.0 Cal | Jevity 1.2 Cal | Jevity 1.5 Cal | 
|---|---|---|---|
| Caloric Density | 1.0 kcal/mL | 1.2 kcal/mL | 1.5 kcal/mL | 
| Protein Content | Standard | High Protein | High Protein & High Calorie | 
| Fiber Content | Fiber-fortified with soy fiber | Fiber-fortified with scFOS® | Fiber-fortified with scFOS® | 
| Primary Use | Long-term tube feeding, standard nutritional needs | Weight maintenance and gain, higher protein needs | Concentrated calories for fluid-restricted patients | 
| Osmolality | Isotonic | Moderate | High Concentration | 
Conclusion
Jevity is a versatile medical nutrition product used by a diverse patient population, from those requiring long-term tube feeding to elderly individuals with poor appetite. Its fiber-fortified, complete, and balanced profile addresses specific nutritional needs and helps manage gastrointestinal function, a critical factor for patients receiving enteral nutrition. The availability of different caloric concentrations allows healthcare professionals to tailor nutritional plans to the specific energy and protein requirements of their patients, supporting everything from routine feeding to more intensive needs like wound healing and weight maintenance. Ultimately, Jevity's use is medically supervised and targets individuals at risk of or suffering from malnutrition. For more information on its composition and features, consulting official manufacturer materials can be helpful, such as those available on the Abbott Nutrition website.
Where to learn more about Jevity
To gain a deeper understanding of Jevity and other Abbott Nutrition products, you can explore their official resources, which provide detailed nutritional information, ingredients, and clinical applications. Abbott Nutrition: Jevity