Is There a Nutritional Differance Between Grass and Grain Fed Beef?

According to a recent article published in Nutrition Journal (10 March 2010), there are nutritional advantages to consuming grass-fed beef. Grass-fed or grass finished beef had higher Omega 3 levels, higher beta carotene levels, Higher Vitamin E levels and a better fatty acid profile. The researchers did caution that grass-fed beef did have a different flavor, aroma and may require cooking modifications.


Practice Tip: Grass-fed or grass finished beef has a superior nutritional profile when compared to grain fed beef but may require a palate change.

Delayed Feedings After PEG Placement

In this meta-analysis (6 studies, N=467), early feeding (<4 hrs) after a PEG tube placement appeared to be safe and well-tolerated. Usual protocol delays feedings until the day after PEG placement or a wait of 24 hours before feeding is initiated. This analysis indicates that a higher residual may occur with earlier feeding but no complications were noted because of greater residual volumes.

Implication for Practice: Earlier feedings may decrease hospital stays and reduce health care costs.


Source:Bechtold et al.(2008). Early versus delayed feeding after placement of a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy: A meta-analysis. American Journal of Gastroenterology