Supplemental nutrition drinks provide a healthy balance of protein,
carbohydrate, and fat. There are hundreds of varieties that fall into
two general categories.
Shakes, such as Boost or Ensure, are intended for oral consumption. You can find them on a grocery
store shelf. These are formulated to help you meet general nutrition
goals such as increased calories and protein. Some drinks are designed
to be compatible with health conditions such as diabetes (Glucerna).
Shakes are usually fortified with vitamins and blended with sugar to
improve taste.
Formulas are designed for more specific disease
states such as cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and
later-stage kidney disease. These drinks (Jevity, Osmolite) can be
consumed orally but aren't designed to taste good, and are often used in
feeding tubes. Your doctor will have to supervise use of these.
You don't need a doctor's okay to try a shake, but it's a good idea
to ask your doctor if any of the ingredients will interfere with your
medications. For example, some drinks contain vitamin K, and sudden
changes in vitamin K intake may interfere with the effect of the blood
thinner warfarin.