What is ISOCAL?
ISOCAL is a brand of nutritionally complete formulas produced by Nestlé Health Science. It is designed for the dietary management of individuals with increased nutritional needs that may not be met through diet alone. The product is available in various formats, such as a liquid formula and a powder, and is often used for both oral supplementation and tube feeding. A key feature of ISOCAL is its isotonic formula, which helps prevent issues like diarrhea and cramping often associated with high-concentration diets.
Protein Content in Different ISOCAL Formulations
The amount of protein in ISOCAL depends on the specific product formulation. Nestlé Health Science offers several versions, including a standard formula and a high-protein version, ISOCAL HN. The protein source typically includes high-quality milk protein concentrate and soy protein isolate. This blend ensures a complete amino acid profile, vital for various bodily functions, especially for those experiencing malnutrition.
ISOCAL Liquid Formula
A single 250 mL bottle of the standard ISOCAL liquid provides 8.7 grams of protein. This equates to approximately 14% of the bottle's total caloric content. It is a balanced, moderate protein formula suitable for general nutritional support.
ISOCAL HN (High Nitrogen/Protein)
For individuals with a higher protein requirement, ISOCAL HN is available. A 250 mL bottle of ISOCAL HN contains a higher protein concentration, providing 11 grams of protein per bottle. This makes it a more suitable option for those with elevated nutritional needs, such as recovering from surgery or suffering from severe malnutrition.
ISOCAL Powder
For the powdered version, the protein content is measured differently. For ISOCAL powder, there is 15.3 grams of protein per 100 grams of powder. This allows for reconstitution at varying concentrations (from 0.5 to 2.0 kcal/mL) to meet individual patient requirements.
Protein Sources in ISOCAL
The protein blend in ISOCAL is carefully selected to provide high biological value. The primary sources are:
- Milk Protein Concentrate: A dairy-derived protein source that contains both casein and whey proteins, offering a sustained release of amino acids.
- Soya Protein Isolate: A plant-based protein source that is easily digestible and adds to the complete amino acid profile.
Comparison of ISOCAL Protein Content
To help understand ISOCAL's protein levels in context, here is a comparison of common formulations:
| Product | Serving Size | Protein Content | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ISOCAL Liquid | 250 mL Bottle | 8.7 g | Standard formula for moderate needs. |
| ISOCAL HN Liquid | 250 mL Bottle | 11 g | Higher protein for increased needs. |
| ISOCAL Powder | 100 g Powder | 15.3 g | Can be mixed to various concentrations. |
| ISOCAL 100 Mini | 100 mL Pack | 8 g | Smaller, concentrated serving. |
| Harvard Health Recommendation | Per kg of body weight | 0.8 g | Standard adult RDA, varies per person. |
Benefits of the Protein Blend in ISOCAL
The protein formulation in ISOCAL is not arbitrary; it is designed to offer maximum benefit for those with special dietary requirements. Here are some of the advantages:
- Supports Muscle and Tissue Repair: Adequate protein intake is crucial for healing, especially in post-operative patients or those experiencing malnutrition.
- Boosts Immune Function: Protein plays a critical role in immune system function, and the vitamins fortified in ISOCAL, like Vitamin B and C, further enhance this.
- Easily Digested: The use of easily absorbed protein sources like milk and soy proteins, combined with medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) oil, aids digestion, particularly for individuals with compromised digestive systems.
- Lactose and Gluten-Free: Many ISOCAL formulations are lactose and gluten-free, making them suitable for a broader range of patients with dietary intolerances.
How to Determine if ISOCAL is Right for You
For individuals considering ISOCAL, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional. They can assess individual protein and nutritional needs, especially for those using the product for tube feeding or medical conditions. A doctor or dietitian will provide guidance on the appropriate product and dosage to ensure optimal nutritional management.
Conclusion
In summary, the amount of protein in ISOCAL varies depending on the specific product format. A standard 250 mL liquid bottle contains 8.7 grams, while the high-protein version, ISOCAL HN, provides 11 grams. The powdered formula offers 15.3 grams of protein per 100 grams, allowing for flexible serving sizes. The formula uses a quality milk and soy protein blend, along with other vitamins and nutrients, making it a valuable tool for managing malnutrition and supporting the health of individuals with increased nutritional needs under medical supervision. It is crucial to determine the specific ISOCAL product and serving size to know the exact protein content.
Visit Nestlé Health Science to learn more about ISOCAL products.
