Frequently Asked Questions

Medical nutrition products come in different forms. There are oral products that are supplements for those who are able to eat properly, and there are also enteral products for patients who are unable to eat but still have a functioning gastrointestinal tract. This system allows them to obtain the nutrients they need without having to chew or swallow.

Whatever product is used, medical nutrition exists to treat patients who are suffering from malnutrition. It could be to help improve or maintain a good nutritional balance, minimize any further losses, or to balance weight loss or gain.

Medical Nutrition is for anyone who needs nutritional support under advice of a healthcare professional, whether that’s in the short or long-term. It covers any person who is getting too few or too many nutrients, and they aren’t maintaining a healthy balance for their bodies. This could include patients in hospitals, those who are pre or post surgery, people with chronic diseases or dietary related illnesses, and the elderly. A patient will undergo a risk assessment and decisions will be made about what support needs to be offered, how and when.

Without the right medical nutrition, patients could suffer from the effects of malnutrition, which can be very serious. This not only affects a person’s weight, but it can lead to illness, weakness, fatigue, a lack of appetite (which only compounds the problem) and, in some cases, depression. It’s important that patients get the help they need. Good nutrition alone can support the recovery period of those receiving medical care.

Parenteral nutrition allows for nutrients to still be taken into the body when no other method is possible, thereby keeping a nutritional balance in patients. This process can be administered to patients for as long as it is needed. Often it will be used for a short time; only until either Enteral or oral feeding replace the need for it.