Find out what life can look like with a feeding tube in this personal story by Bastian from Germany, an M3 member and author of the Blog Lecben mit PEG (Life with PEG).
At M3 Global Research, we regularly collaborate with our M3 members to highlight lived experiences that offer unique insights and raise awareness on important health topics.
In this article, we’re honoured to share the story of Bastian, an M3 member and long-time user of a feeding tube. Drawing from over 20 years of experience with artificial nutrition, Bastian offers a personal, honest perspective on life with a feeding tube — from the initial shock to the everyday routines, and ultimately, to a life lived with confidence and purpose.
- Starting a New Life with A Feeding Tube
- Accepting a Feeding Tube: The First Step
- Relief Through a Feeding Tube
- Family, Food, Shared Moments, and Artificial Nutrition
- The Practical Side of Tube Nutrition
- Living Fully with a Feeding Tube
Let us know what you think of this patient story about living with a feeding tube in the comments below.
Starting a New Life with A Feeding Tube
Hearing that you’ll need a feeding tube can come as a shock, and that’s completely normal. It’s not something most people ever expect to deal with, and the thought alone can lead to some distressing fears.
When a doctor first told me I’d need an artificial feeding device, my mind immediately spiralled into worst-case scenarios: “First, I’ll be fed artificially. Then I’ll end up on a ventilator. And then… I might as well pick out a coffin because my life will be over.”
Of course, none of that came true. Today, I know that artificial nutrition is not the end of life — it’s often the beginning of a better one. I’ve now been living well with a feeding tube for over 20 years.
Still, the transition takes time — not just practically, but emotionally. Eating and drinking are some of the most basic, human experiences. Changing how that works takes adjustment and compassion — especially for yourself.
Accepting a Feeding Tube: The First Step
In my view, the most important first step is acceptance. A feeding tube is only recommended when absolutely necessary. It’s not a failure — it’s a powerful tool.
Thanks to advances in medicine, we can now nourish our bodies when eating by mouth isn’t possible. In the past, people in my situation would have simply starved. Today, we have access to tube nutrition — and that is something to be truly grateful for.
I know it’s easier said than done. But what helped me was focusing on the positive aspects of this new way of life.
Relief Through a Feeding Tube
Before I had my feeding tube, eating had become exhausting. Meals took a long time, I coughed frequently, and the simple act of swallowing became a daily challenge.
With tube nutrition, things changed. I could finally get the nutrients I needed easily and comfortably. My body responded quickly. I felt stronger and more energised.
The best part? I didn’t have to give up food entirely. Many assume a feeding tube means never eating orally again, but that’s not always true. In my case, I could still nibble or taste things when I felt like it.
Even if your condition requires a modified diet (like pureed foods), there are still ways to enjoy the experience of eating — and feeling included at the table.
Family, Food, Shared Moments, and Artificial Nutrition
I came to terms with my feeding tube fairly quickly. My family needed a little longer.
At first, they felt sorry that I “couldn’t eat properly.” But after an honest conversation, they understood that this artificial feeding device wasn’t a negative for me, it was liberating.
Soon, there were no more awkward glances or guilty feelings at mealtimes. We simply communicated. If I wanted a snack, I said so. If I didn’t, that was fine too.
While they ate, I let my tube feed run — and I felt just as full as everyone else afterwards. If I didn’t feel up to joining, I skipped a meal. But over time, I joined more and more. We discovered that food is about so much more than eating.
Most of our taste experience actually comes from smell. Sitting at the table, I still got that. And the most important part? The togetherness. Food brings people close, even with a feeding tube.
The Practical Side of Tube Nutrition
Of course, adjusting emotionally is only part of the journey. There’s also the practical side.
Even with artificial nutrition, you still need to think about calories, nutrients, and routines. But here’s the good news: unlike “oral eaters” (my affectionate term), we tube feeders often get expert support.
There are professionals who specialise in tube nutrition. They help you find the right feeding formula and guide you through different application methods — whether it’s Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) or another system.
It’s a broad area, but taking the time to understand your options is worth it. With the right support, your daily life with a feeding tube can be flexible, nourishing, and empowering.
Living Fully with a Feeding Tube
Life with a feeding tube wasn’t what I imagined — it’s better. I’m living proof that this isn’t the end, but the start of a different kind of freedom.
You don’t have to love the idea of artificial feeding, but you can still live with joy, connection, and dignity. Never forget that.
About the Author
Bastian lives with progressive muscle weakness and has been using a Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) feeding tube for over 20 years.
Through his blog, Leben mit PEG (Life with PEG), he shares personal insights and tips about life with a feeding tube.
Bastian is also an entrepreneur and journalist, advocating for accessibility in travel and hospitality. His dream? An entirely accessible hotel on his favourite island — Mallorca.
If you want to share your personal story with us and help research forward by participating in paid market research, make sure to register for the M3 Global Research
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