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Elderly patient has stomach cancer, has recently had feeding tube inserted…

- - - - If the esophagus is not in use, it is possible that the sphincter that prevents acid reflux can weaken, causing stomach acid to damage the esophagus.
        
        With the salivary glands not in use, amylase is not utilized in the break down of starch and bile is not as effective.
- - - - Stomach: The stomach contains four sections: the cardiac region, the fundus, the body, and the pylorus. The food initially enters the stomach through the cardiac region, and then proceeds to the body. This upper part in the stomach lets the food enter, while the lower half slowly mixes the food with the digestive juices. The fundus, located at the top of the stomach, is useful for stored gases.
        
        The small intestine will further dissolve the food in digestive juices. The walls of the small intestine absorb water and other nutrients which then go straight into the bloodstream.
        
        The large intestine gathers the waste products from the small intestine and gathers water to make the liquid waste into a solid.
        
        The rectum, or the lower end of the large intestine, stores the stool until it is ready to be removed.
        
        The pancreas creates digestive juices that the small intestine utilizes. These juices contain enzymes that can break down carbs, fats, and proteins.
        
        The liver produces bile, which can also help digest fats and vitamins. Bile is either utilized by the small intestine or stored in the gallbladder for future use.
        
        The gallbladder acts as a bile storage. When you eat, it releases small amounts into the small intestine.
- - - - Proteins: Protein is the next most important, as it is the building block for most growth and development as well as being important for hormonal production as well as another fuel source.
        
        Fats: Fats, such as monosaturated or unsaturated fats are important because they can help with numerous body functions, such as protecting against heart diseases by lowering blood pressure.
        
        Vitamins: Vitamins are involved in nearly every bodily process, with some examples being maintaining healthy skin, immune system boost, and metabolic processes. An example of some important vitamins are vitamin A, D, E, K, B-6, C, etc.
        
        Minerals: Minerals are important for a range of bodily functions. It is especially important to maintain a balanced diet, as the body can only receive minerals from outside sources. Some examples of major minerals would be potassium, sodium, iron, iodine, etc.
- - - - Trypsin: Trypsin is produced in the pancreas and helps break down proteins.
        
        Pancreatic Lipase: Found in the pancreas, these help break down fats.
- - - - Additionally, all liquids and medication will be given via the feeding tube.
      - It is possible to still eat certain soft foods with a feeding tube inserted, but it all comes down to what the patient can tolerate and what is recommended by the individual's doctor.