The Benefits of Fresubin Nutritional Drinks: An Overview of Use, Effects, and Special Features

Fresubin Protein Energy Drink Mischkarton mit verschiedenen Geschmacksrichtungen
Fresubin Protein Energy Drink Mixed Carton
€65,90
Provide xtra Mischkarton
Provide Xtra Mixed Carton
€62,50
Frebini ENERGY FIBRE Drink Mischkarton für Kinder, hochkalorische Ernährung
Frebini Energy Drink Mixed Carton
€69,90
Fresubin Yocrème Mischkarton mit verschiedenen Joghurtgeschmackrichtungen
Fresubin Yocrème Mixed Carton
€67,95
Fresubin Dessert Fruit 24x125g - Mischkarton
Fresubin Dessert Fruit 24x125g - Mixed Carton
€64,90
Fresubin 3,2 kcal Drink für spezielle medizinische Ernährung
Fresubin 3.2 kcal Drink
€104,95

Definition and Objectives

Oral nutritional supplements are a liquid or semi-solid food form that has a high content of vitamins, calories, minerals, and protein. They have been specially developed for medical purposes to ensure a targeted nutrient supply. Oral nutritional supplements can either supplement a normal diet or be used as a complete food intake, especially when oral food intake itself is restricted.

Composition

Typically, Fresubin oral nutritional supplements contain a balanced mixture of **proteins**, **carbohydrates**, **fats**, **vitamins**, **minerals**, and **trace elements**. This combination ensures that nutrient intake is optimally designed. There are different variants with different energy contents, including normocaloric and hypercaloric products, which can be adjusted as needed.

When are oral nutritional supplements used?

Indications

Fresubin oral nutritional supplements are particularly used when **malnutrition** is imminent or already exists. They are often recommended for:

  • Diseases: In cases of cancer, chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, chewing and swallowing problems, or after operations.
  • Geriatrics: Especially in older people to improve nutritional status and prevent secondary diseases.
  • Increased energy requirements: During convalescence, chronic diseases, or in special life situations, for example, in old age.

Target Groups

Oral nutritional supplements are aimed at various target groups, in particular:

  • Adults and older people who are susceptible to malnutrition.
  • Children aged 1 and over with special nutritional needs.
  • People with special dietary requirements, such as allergies or intolerances.

Variants of Oral Nutritional Supplements

Energy and Nutrient Density

The different variants of Fresubin oral nutritional supplements are categorized as follows:

  • Normocaloric: 1 kcal/ml, suitable for sufficient digestive performance.
  • Hypercaloric: 1.5–2.4 kcal/ml, optimal for patients with increased energy requirements.
  • Special products: For example, high-energy emulsions (e.g., 600 kcal in 120 ml) for patients with very high energy requirements.

Composition and Special Forms

Fresubin offers special variants, including:

  • Products with/without fiber, depending on medical necessity and tolerability.
  • High-protein variants, ideal for increased protein requirements.
  • Vegan options that are free of animal ingredients.
  • Lactose-reduced and gluten-free products for people with corresponding intolerances.

Flavors and Dosage Forms

Fresubin oral nutritional supplements are available in various flavors, including fruity and chocolate variants, and can be purchased in the form of single-serving bottles, EasyDrinks, shots, or as powder.

Application and Dosage

Intake Recommendations

When taking oral nutritional supplements, the following recommendations should be observed:

  • Ideally, consume between meals and in small sips.
  • The dosage depends on individual needs, e.g., 2-3 portions for supplementary nutrition or 5-7 portions for exclusive nutrition.

Notes on Application

Oral nutritional supplements should only be used under medical supervision, especially for exclusive nutrition. It is important to ensure adequate fluid intake and to ensure that the products are not used for certain metabolic diseases.

Special Features for Children

Oral nutritional supplements are generally not suitable for children under 3 years of age. For children under 6 years of age, use should only be after medical consultation.

Effects and Benefits of Fresubin Oral Nutritional Supplements

Goals of Oral Nutritional Supplements

The use of Fresubin oral nutritional supplements aims to improve or maintain nutritional status, promote wound healing and regeneration, and increase quality of life and independence, especially in old age or with chronic diseases. Furthermore, the flexibility in taste and composition allows for individual adaptation to the needs of the users.

Supplementary Aspects

Oral nutritional supplements are often also referred to as "astronaut food" because they contain all important nutrients in concentrated form. In addition, they can also be used in sports nutrition or for short-term build-up diets in healthy individuals.

Contraindications and Warnings

There are some contraindications that should be observed when using oral nutritional supplements:

  • Not suitable if enteral nutrition is generally contraindicated or in case of known intolerances to certain ingredients.
  • For certain metabolic diseases (e.g., galactosemia), oral nutritional supplements should be avoided.
  • For children under 3 years of age, oral nutritional supplements are usually not suitable; for children under 6 years of age, use should only be after consultation with a doctor.

Reimbursement and Prescription

Oral nutritional supplements can be prescribed at the expense of statutory health insurance if medically necessary. The prescription is made after individual examination by the treating physician, taking into account the necessity and the specific need.

Practical Tips for Intake

Oral nutritional supplements often taste better when consumed chilled. In addition, storage should be at room temperature, and open products should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed promptly. Targeted integration into the daily routine (between meals) can increase willingness to consume and prevent premature satiety.

Summary of Main Contents

Oral nutritional supplements are a medically indicated product for the targeted supply of energy and nutrients, which is particularly suitable for people with restricted food intake or increased needs. The variety of variants allows for individual adaptation to therapy. Use should always be under medical supervision, especially if normal nutrition is to be completely replaced.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How should Fresubin oral nutritional supplements be used correctly?

Oral nutritional supplements should ideally be consumed between meals and in small sips. The individual dosage depends on personal needs and should be discussed with the doctor if necessary.

What do Fresubin oral nutritional supplements cost?

Prices for Fresubin oral nutritional supplements vary depending on the product and packaging size. Tips for cost coverage by health insurance can also be provided.

What should be considered when choosing oral nutritional supplements?

When choosing oral nutritional supplements, individual nutrient requirements, possible intolerances, and taste preferences should be taken into account. Consultation with a doctor is advisable.

Are oral nutritional supplements suitable for children?

Oral nutritional supplements are generally not suitable for children under 3 years of age and should always only be used after medical consultation for younger children.

Can oral nutritional supplements help with malnutrition?

Yes, Fresubin oral nutritional supplements are specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs in case of malnutrition and can help improve nutritional status.

How long can oral nutritional supplements be used?

Oral nutritional supplements can be used as long as medically necessary. Medical monitoring and regular review of nutritional status are recommended.