Nutritional and high-energy supplements

If you are not eating well or have lost weight you may need to include nutritional or high-energy supplements in your diet.

A wide range of products is available, from nourishing drinks which can be bought over the counter to those which need to be prescribed by your doctor or dietitian.

Nourishing drinks

There are many high-energy drinks available in the supermarket such as milk shakes and smoothies. Some drinks are fortified with vitamins and minerals. These are a good choice if you have a poor appetite.

Nutritionally complete or supplementary drinks

While you are in hospital or attending a clinic, your doctor or dietitian may prescribe special liquid nutritional supplements. These drinks may be taken in place of food or in addition to your usual meals. They are available in a wide variety of flavours and as milk shake-style drinks or juice / squash supplements.

Your dietitian will advise you how many liquid nutritional supplements you need to consume each day.

Energy supplements

Energy supplements are available as powders or liquids and can be added to both food and drinks. Ask your dietitian for advice on how much to use each day.

Find out more

Further information and recipes can be found in the pages linked below and in the Eating Well booklet, available as a PDF in patient information downloads or by contacting PALS.