What is this leaflet about?

Your doctor, or registered nurse prescriber, has prescribed an oral nutritional supplement for you to help increase your calorie and protein intake. Calories in food are what give your body energy. Protein is known as the ‘building block’ of the body, helping it to build, repair and maintain strength. If you are prescribed an oral nutritional supplement, you should take it along with your usual diet not instead of your usual diet. You may need it if you are ill and eating less than usual, or have lost weight without intending to. This leaflet tells you how to take oral nutritional supplements.

What are oral nutritional supplements?

Oral nutritional supplements are specially-made food products with energy, protein and other nutrients. They are also called ‘sip feeds’. They can be prescribed by doctors and registered nurse prescribers. It is often a dietitian who recommends that oral nutritional supplements are prescribed. There are different types of oral nutritional supplements available. These include:

• powdered oral nutritional supplements;

• ready-made milk-based ‘sip feeds’; and

• juice-style ’sip feeds’.

If you have a difficulty swallowing, you might be prescribed semi-solid or pudding-type oral nutritional supplements. Your doctor, nurse or dietitian will help you to decide which one is best for you. Before you receive your prescription, your doctor, nurse or dietitian should explain:

• why you need to take oral nutritional supplements;

•how much to take; and

• for how long you need to take them.