By Danielle Maguire, Nutrition Program Director
You’ve probably seen the ads on TV for oral nutrition supplements, which state they provide “strength and energy” – but do you need them? Let’s take a look at what they are, what they’re used for, and you can decide with your needs in mind.
Oral nutrition supplements (ONS) are designed to provide additional nutrients, protein, and energy for people who are not meeting their nutrition needs through food alone. Some examples include unintentionally losing weight, malnourishment, have a poor appetite or swallowing difficulties; or maybe have gone through something like surgery, have a wound, or have been recently hospitalized. ONS are a great, easy way to help you gain weight or maintain your nutritional needs if you are not, or unable to, eat enough. Talk with your dietitian or doctor if you have any questions, as the amount of ONS you may need depends on your individual needs and food intake.
ONS do mimic a fairly balanced “meal” however, these are intended to supplement meals, like it says in the title, not to replace meals, so you can use them as part of a healthy diet if there is a need. If you are maintaining your weight, muscle, and follow a well-balanced diet, you probably do not require an ONS.
You can find ONS at almost any grocery store or pharmacy, all with varying contents, flavors, and prices. There are many brands and types to choose from, so try to find one that fits your needs best. There are many varieties, such as ready-to-drink milkshakes or juices, pudding or ice cream-styles, and powdered that you can simply mix with milk. There are also high-protein, diabetes, and kidney-friendly ONS to choose from.
If you are considering the need for ONS, be sure to talk with your dietitian or doctor for an individualized recommendation!
Sources: American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition
Simple Vegetable Beef Soup
This delicious and simple soup recipe is perfect for a cold winter day! You can also easily adjust ingredients to fit your liking by substituting whatever vegetables or pasta you have on hand.
Yield: 6 Servings | Prep Time: 5 min
Cook Time: 1 hr 25 min | Total Time: 1 hr 30 min
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 ¾ cup mixed frozen vegetables
- 5 cups water
- 1 can diced tomatoes (28 oz)
- 1 cup uncooked macaroni
Instructions:
- In a large soup pot, brown ground beef. Drain fat.
- Pour in water, onion soup mix, and tomatoes with juice. Simmer for 1 hour on medium-low heat.
- Add macaroni and frozen vegetables. Cook 15 minutes longer on medium heat. Serve hot. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts for 1 Serving: 230 calories, 22g protein, 3g fat, 5g fiber, 28g carbohydrate.
Source: https://www.simplystacie.net/busy-day-soup/#recipe