As people age, maintaining a balanced diet becomes increasingly challenging due to several factors, including reduced appetite, difficulty chewing, and underlying health conditions. Many elderly individuals struggle to consume the necessary calories, protein, and essential vitamins from their daily meals. This can lead to malnutrition, weight loss, and weakened immunity, increasing the risk of illness and hospitalizations.
To address these concerns, nutritional supplement drinks have become an essential part of elderly healthcare. These ready-made and powder-based drinks provide an easily digestible source of nutrients, helping seniors maintain energy levels, muscle strength, and overall well-being. In the UK, the NHS offers various nutritional supplements to support individuals who are at risk of malnutrition or recovering from illnesses and surgeries.
These supplement drinks are designed to be consumed between meals or as a meal replacement, ensuring that elderly individuals receive the required nutrients without overwhelming their digestive system. Available in flavours such as vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, these nutritional supplements cater to different taste preferences while promoting a healthy diet.
NHS-Approved Nutritional Supplement Drinks |NHS-Approved Nutrition Drinks!
The NHS provides access to a range of nutritional supplement drinks for elderly individuals, particularly those experiencing nutritional deficiencies or undergoing medical treatments. Some of the most commonly prescribed and recommended nutritional drinks include:
- Ensure Plus – A high-calorie, protein-rich drink available in multiple flavours. It is often recommended for seniors who need extra energy and nutrients due to weight loss or illness.
- Fortisip – A ready-made supplement designed for individuals with increased nutritional needs. Fortisip provides a balanced combination of calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Complan – A nutrient-dense powder that can be mixed with milk or water to create a nourishing drink. It is ideal for those who struggle to eat solid foods.
- Resource Protein – Specifically formulated for individuals who require extra protein intake to maintain muscle mass and strength.
- Fortijuice – A fruit-based nutritional supplement that offers an alternative to milk-based drinks, suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance.
These nutritional supplements are typically used short-term to help elderly individuals regain strength and maintain overall health. However, some may require long-term supplementation under the supervision of a GP or dietitian.
How Nutritional Supplement Drinks Support Elderly Health | NHS-Approved Nutrition Drinks!
Many elderly individuals experience reduced food intake due to chewing difficulties, digestion issues, medication side effects, or a general decline in appetite. This makes it challenging to obtain essential nutrients from regular meals. Nutritional supplement drinks help to:
- Prevent Malnutrition – These drinks provide high-calorie, protein-rich, and vitamin-packed formulations to ensure seniors receive adequate nutrition.
- Support Recovery from Illness – After a hospital stay or surgery, elderly individuals often require extra nutrients to recover and regain strength.
- Maintain Muscle Mass – Protein-rich supplements help prevent muscle loss, which is crucial for maintaining mobility and independence.
- Boost Energy Levels – High-calorie formulations provide the energy necessary to carry out daily activities.
- Enhance Immune Function – Nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants support a strong immune system, reducing the risk of infections.
Homemade Alternatives to Nutritional Supplement Drinks
While ready-made nutritional supplements are convenient, some elderly individuals prefer homemade alternatives. These allow for more control over ingredients and flavor preferences while ensuring adequate nutrient intake. Some easy-to-make nutritional drinks include:
1. Fortified Milkshake Recipe
Ingredients:
- 200ml full-fat milk
- 1 tbsp skimmed milk powder
- 1 large scoop vanilla ice cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Fresh fruit (banana, strawberries, or blueberries)
Method:
Blend all ingredients until smooth. This high-calorie drink provides protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins.
2. Protein-Rich Smoothie
Ingredients:
- Fortified milk
- Natural yoghurt
- Nut butter (almond, peanut, or cashew butter)
- Oats or seeds (for added fiber and energy)
- Honey for sweetness
Method:
Blend all ingredients together to create a thick, nutrient-dense shake.
3. Hot Nutritional Drinks
- Malted drinks such as Horlicks or Ovaltine can be enhanced with skimmed milk powder for extra nutrition.
- Hot chocolate made with full-fat milk and a dash of cream can be a comforting and calorie-boosting option.
These homemade nutritional drinks provide customizable solutions for elderly individuals who prefer natural ingredients while maintaining a balanced diet.
The Role of Dietitians and GPs in Elderly Nutrition
When incorporating nutritional supplement drinks into an elderly person’s diet, consulting a GP or dietitian is crucial. A professional can assess nutritional needs and recommend appropriate supplements based on health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or digestive disorders.
Dietitians help tailor nutritional plans by considering:
- Protein requirements to prevent muscle loss
- Caloric intake to maintain a healthy weight
- Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
- Food allergies and intolerances
A GP can prescribe nutritional supplements for elderly individuals who require medical-grade meal replacements. They can also monitor for potential side effects or interactions with medications.
Choosing the Right Nutritional Supplement Drink
The best nutritional supplement drink depends on an individual’s dietary needs, taste preferences, and medical conditions. Factors to consider include:
- Dairy-Free Options – Individuals with lactose intolerance can opt for soy-based, almond-based, or oat-based drinks.
- High-Protein Requirements – Those who need extra protein for muscle maintenance should choose protein-rich drinks like Ensure Plus or Resource Protein.
- Calorie-Rich Supplements – Seniors who need to gain weight should consider high-calorie options such as Fortisip Extra.
- Fruit-Based Alternatives – Individuals who prefer juice-based drinks can try Fortijuice, which provides essential nutrients without dairy.
Always consult a GP or dietitian before incorporating nutritional supplements into a senior’s diet plan to ensure the chosen product meets their specific nutritional needs.
