The history of enteral nutrition and its influences on humankind – or, a picnic in space
The beginning of enteral nutrition is directly connected to the development of nutrition tubes, and their roots reach back into antiquity. People have been exploring the theme of undernutrition and malnourishment since the time of ancient civilizations in Egypt, India, Persia, and China. Initially, nutrient enemas were administered to people in order to assure an optimal nutritional intake.