Overview of oral nutrition supplements and their use

Malnutrition causes poorer health outcomes in patients, and the risks of mortality and morbidity are increased when there is a poor nutritional status. Prescribed nutritional supplements are one way that a patient's oral intake can be increased, although a 'food first' approach can often result in weight gain without the use of prescribed supplement, and dietary assessment and advice can help patients to modify their diet and regain weight. It is important for patients to be reviewed and have the expectation that, if supplements are to be progressed to, they will complement all the dietary changes that have already been attempted. Health and Care Professions Council-registered dietitians are trained to calculate nutritional requirements, determine the energy and protein the patient is managing and form a plan to meet any deficits. Community nursing staff play a vital role by encouraging nutritional support advice at the early stage and referring to dietetics for further support.