Nutritional supplements

The best way to get more energy and protein is by eating a healthy, balanced diet if you can. If you have eating problems or are losing weight, talk to your cancer doctor, specialist nurse, dietitian or GP. They can give you more advice.

There are many nutritional supplements that can add extra energy or protein (or both) to your diet. You can add them to your everyday foods or have them in addition to your normal diet. In some situations, supplements can be used to replace meals.

There are different types of nutritional supplements available. These include:

• milk-based supplements
• juice type supplements
• soups
• powders that are made into drinks with water or milk
• ready-made puddings
• concentrated liquids.

They come in different flavours. Some are savoury and some are sweet.

You can buy some products from your chemist or supermarket. But many of them are only available on prescription. Your cancer doctor, specialist nurse or dietitian can advise you about supplements and prescribe them for you if needed. It is important to follow the advice of your doctor or dietitian when using high-protein or high-energy supplements.

Your doctor, nurse or dietitian can make sure supplements meet your needs and preferences. For example, if you:

• are vegetarian or vegan
• follow a kosher or halal diet
• have a dietary intolerance, such as to dairy (lactose) or gluten.

If you have diabetes, it is important to get advice from your GP, specialist nurse or dietitian before using nutritional supplements.

Many producers of nutritional supplements provide recipes that use their products. Read the packet or visit the product website for details.

These are ready-made, flavoured supplements that are available on prescription.

If you find them too sweet, you can dilute them with water or fizzy drinks such as soda water or tonic water. You can also put them into jellies or puddings.

High-energy and juice-tasting supplements have a high sugar content. If you have diabetes, a dietitian can advise you about using these drinks. If you have a sore mouth or throat, they may not be suitable, as they may sting. If you have had radiotherapy for a head and neck cancer, you may be at greater risk of tooth decay.

You can take fat-based liquids separately in small doses. Or you can add them to some foods. Your doctor or dietitian will give you advice on how and when you should use this type of supplement.

You may be eating more sugary and sweet items when trying to gain weight. Some supplements are also sweet.

It is always important to look after your teeth, but especially when you are having more sweet foods. Brush your teeth 2 times a day with a fluoride toothpaste. It is a good idea to clean your teeth or use a mouthwash after any sugary foods. Your healthcare team can advise you about a suitable mouthwash to use. Chewing sugar-free gum after you have eaten sweet foods can also help. 

Make sure you have your teeth regularly checked by a dentist. Always tell a dentist that you have cancer and if you are having any treatment. Your GP, nurse or dietitian can give you more advice.