Choice of dietary supplement strategy for the treatment of malnourished hospitalized patients. Comparison of liquid or granules form of supplements

The supply of oral nutritional supplements is extremely important in the patients treatment. In the case of risk of malnourished, it is necessary to enrich the diet with adequate amounts of all necessary nutrients.

This aim can be achieved with diet supplements called ONS (oral nutritional supplements) occurring in liquid or granules form. Early inclusion of nutritional support helps to reduce the risk of complications of hospital treatment, supports the patient’s response to treatment, and thus shortens hospital stay and reduces costs of hospitalization.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the preferences and tolerances of ONS administered either in liquid or granular form. The study qualified 15 malnourished patients (≥ 3 NRS2002 – Nutritional Risk Score) who received oral nutrition. Patients received a ready-to-drink liquid supplements for 3 days and for next 3 days granular supplements were added to meals. Both formulations had an equivalent nutritional value and neutral taste. After each period and at the end of the study, patients assessed their preferences using a unified questionnaire. It also evaluated the amount of macronutrients taken from the supplement and the occurrence of complications.

ONS in the form of granules added to meals was better tolerated by patients, and thus allowed for a more effective dietary supplement.

Depending on the clinical condition of the patient, the type and severity of malnutrition as well as the length of time in which we are feeding, we need to choose the right way of supply and the dose of oral nutritional supplements.