ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Enteral feeding

Enteral feeding is when someone who can't eat or drink normally gets their nutrients through a tube that goes into their tummy. It's like getting food through a special straw.

Sometimes people can't eat or drink on their own because they're sick or hurt or have a medical condition. When this happens, doctors may put a tube into their tummy to give them the things they need to eat and stay healthy.

The tube is like a little straw that goes through the nose or mouth and down into the tummy. The food goes into a bag that hangs from the tube, and it trickles into the tummy slowly over time. It's important to go slowly so the tummy doesn't get upset.

The food that is given through the tube is carefully measured to make sure the person is getting the right amount of vitamins, minerals, and other important things their body needs to grow and stay strong. This way, even if they can't eat regularly, they can still be healthy and grow like other kids.