Pragmatic approach to nutrition in the ICU: expert opinion regarding which calorie protein target.

Background & Aims: Since the publications of the ESPEN guidelines on enteral and parenteral nutrition in ICU, numerous studies have added information to assist the nutritional management of critically ill patients regarding the recognition of the right population to feed, the energy-protein targeting, the route and the timing to start.

Methods: We reviewed and discussed the literature related to nutrition in the ICU from 2006 until October 2013.

Results: To identify safe, minimal and maximal amounts for the different nutrients and at the different stages of the acute illness is necessary.