Researchers looked at how nutrition affects muscle strength and physical recovery in critically ill patients in intensive care units. They found that giving too much or too little food can hurt recovery, but the right amount of protein and calories - especially during the healing phase - helps patients regain muscle mass and physical function. The study suggests that combining proper nutrition with early physical therapy works best, and that timing matters a lot when feeding sick patients.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: How different feeding approaches affect muscle strength and physical recovery in ICU patients
  • Who participated: Critically ill patients in intensive care units across multiple research studies
  • Key finding: Both overfeeding and underfeeding hurt recovery, but adequate nutrition during healing phases helps preserve muscle mass
  • What it means for you: If you or a loved one is in the ICU, proper nutrition timing and amounts may be crucial for getting strength back