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Malnutrition

Malnutrition is a common health problem which can affect anyone; however it is more common for older people and/ or those who are socially isolated. If you, or someone you care for do not eat enough of the right nutrients, there is a risk of becoming malnourished. There are many reasons why this might happen, such as: a recent hospital stay, a long term health condition, difficulty swallowing, or bereavement.

Common signs of malnutrition include:

  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Low body weight
  • Feeling weak or tired
  • Reduced interest in eating and drinking or loss of appetite
  • Low mood

Treating malnutrition

When someone has lost weight or has a poor appetite and is malnourished, making simple changes to meals, snacks and drinks may help. Choosing nutrient dense foods, drinks and eating little and often can help to improve energy, protein, vitamin and mineral intake without making portions too big to manage.

‘Food First’

The ‘Food First’ approach may help to increase your intake and prevent further weight loss. This involves three key elements:

  • Aim to have one pint of fortified whole milk per day
  • Include two nourishing snacks or drinks a day
  • Have three fortified meals every day

Below are a several videos showing your how to make a range of fortified drinks and snacks.

How to make fortified milk

Select the image below to hear from our dietitians who explain how to make fortified milk and the ingredients you will need. Fortified milk is very useful for people who have lost weight, or people who have a poor appetite and can't eat very much. 

 

How to make a fortified juicy drink

Our dietitians explain how to make a fortified juicy drink and the ingredients you will need. This juicy drink is very useful for people who have lost weight, or people who have a poor appetite but don’t like milky drinks.

How to make a fortified soup

Our dietitians explain how to make a fortified soup and the ingredients you will need. This fortified soup is a great, nourishing savoury snack for people who have lost weight, or have a poor appetite.

How to make a fortified milkshake

Our dietitians explain how to make a fortified milkshake and the ingredients you will need. This milkshake is good for people who have lost weight, or have a poor appetite, to have between meals to boost their intake.

How to make a fortified strawberry dessert

Our dietitians explain how to make a fortified strawberry dessert and the ingredients you will need. This fortified dessert is great for after meals or as a nourishing snack for people who have lost weight, or have a poor appetite.

 

If you are concerned you are continuing to lose weight or struggling with your appetite, ask your GP or community nurse to refer you to a Dietitian.

Further information