Disease-related malnutrition is common across healthcare settings in the UK and if left untreated, may have severe consequences. One of the strategies commonly used to combat malnutrition is the use of oral nutritional supplements (ONS). However, there is uncertainty about the optimal way of delivering ONS to patients to maximize compliance and nutrient intake. This randomised study will investigate the effect of different modes of delivery (ad libitum versus instructions on timing/serving volume) of ONS used in addition to the diet on total nutrient intake, compliance, nutritional status and outcome in participants at risk of malnutrition. Participants will be randomised to receive one of two ONS (high energy or standard) for 4 weeks in addition to food, either taken 'Ad libitum', or according to instruction on what to take and when. The primary outcome measure is nutrient intake. Secondary outcome measures include compliance and acceptability of ONS, appetite, anthropometry, muscle strength, quality of life and gastro-intestinal tolerance.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
80
Standard energy, oral nutritional supplement (a milk style nutritional supplement (1.5kcal/ml, 200ml) containing protein, fat, carbohydrate and micronutrients)
High Energy nutritional supplement (a milk style nutritional supplement (2.4kcal/ml, 125ml) containing protein, fat, carbohydrate and micronutrients)
Royal United Hospital, Nutrition and Dietetics Dept
Bath, Wiltshire, United Kingdom
Nutrient intake (energy, protein and micronutrients)
Time frame: 4 weeks
Compliance with ONS
Time frame: 4 weeks
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