A diabetic patient may benefit from a formula with a lower carbohydrate content to promote normoglycemia.

In addition, carbohydrates produce more carbon dioxide when used for energy than protein and lipids do. Since a patient with compromised pulmonary function may have difficulty getting rid of carbon dioxide waste, a low carbohydrate/high fat formula may be beneficial. Such formulas can allow for ventilator-dependent patients to be weaned from the ventilator sooner than if they were on higher carbohydrate formulas.