Oral Nutrition Supplementation in Hospitalized Patients

Nutrition Supplementation in Hospitalized Patients (NutriSup Oral)

The purpose of this pilot study is to determine the effect of 3 months use of enhanced Oral Nutritional Supplement (ONS) on physical function and functional performance in malnourished elderly patients.

The purpose of this pilot study is to determine the effect of 3 months use of enhanced Oral Nutritional Supplementation (ONS) on muscle accretion and functional performance in malnourished elderly patients. The objectives of this study are to determine feasibility of recruitment, adherence to intervention and retention of the sample, as well as the capacity of subjects to complete functional and muscle mass measures for a planned multi-centre Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT).

Inclusion Criteria:

• admitted to a general medical ward and recruited within 48 hours
• over the age of 65 years
• malnourished (subjective global assessment categories B or C patients)

Exclusion Criteria:

• have an allergy or intolerance to any component of the oral supplement
• are designated palliative care
• are currently suffering from refeeding syndrome
• have a pre-existing medical condition that prevents oral intake of full fluids,
• have an expected length of stay of less than 48 hours from the time of assessment
• have suspected ischemic stroke as cause for admission
• reside in a residential care home
• are unable to walk prior to current illness.
• are pregnant/breastfeeding
• have a current diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome