Refeeding syndrome comes up whenever a person ends a period of fasting.
Taking in nutrition again sets off a series of body system reactions that may cause serious or life-threatening symptoms.
The symptoms are nonspecific, and there is no formal diagnosis.
Illustration by Julie Bang for Verywell Health
Illustration by Julie Bang for Verywell Health
When Does Refeeding Syndrome Begin?
Refeeding syndrome may start within a few days after nutrition is reintroduced after fasting ormalnutrition.
It’s usually described as occurring after a “prolonged” time of not taking in any nourishment.
No single agreed-upon definition of timing exists when refeeding syndrome may start.
The period of starvation causes changes in several body systems.
When food is reintroduced, it sets off a series of body system reactions.
This may cause serious symptoms or even be life-threatening.
What Are the Symptoms of Refeeding Syndrome?
The symptoms of refeeding syndrome are nonspecific, meaning that many different conditions could cause them.
Blood tests can show if levels of glucose, vitamins, and minerals are out of balance.
Who Is At Risk?
Low or no nutrition intake for as little as five days is a risk factor for refeeding syndrome.
Refeeding syndrome is a preventable condition.
Extreme diets, crash diets, or fad diets may put people at risk for refeeding syndrome.
It can also cause electrolyte imbalances or liver problems (among other body system changes).
Because of a knowledge gap, refeeding syndrome may not be recognized when it occurs.
Refeeding syndrome is because of taking in nutrients after a prolonged period of insufficient calories.
One part of the treatment will include adding nourishment and vitamins to the body in a controlled manner.
This will help avoid further symptoms or complications.
The continued monitoring will also help determine how slowly nourishment needs to be added.
Treatment Process
Treatment for refeeding syndrome may take time.
Summary
Refeeding syndrome disrupts body systems, which can occur when nutrition is reintroduced after fasting.
It is uncommon, but it can be pretty serious.
It often requires hospital treatment and close monitoring after discharge.
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