For many people relying on oral nutritional supplements like Fortisip, taste fatigue is a common issue. Fortunately, Fortisip can be a versatile ingredient in many recipes, allowing for greater variety and a more pleasant experience. By incorporating it into familiar dishes, you can ensure you receive essential nutrients without sacrificing enjoyment. Always consult with your dietitian or healthcare professional before making significant changes to your prescribed nutritional plan, especially if you have specific medical conditions or swallowing difficulties.
Creative ways to mix Fortisip
Smoothies and milkshakes
Mixing Fortisip into smoothies or milkshakes is one of the most popular and effective methods. The strong flavours of fruit, yoghurt, and other ingredients can easily mask the supplement's taste. Frozen fruits also help to make the drink thick and creamy, similar to a traditional milkshake.
Chocolate Banana Smoothie:
- 1 bottle of Chocolate or Vanilla Fortisip
- 1 frozen banana
- A handful of frozen berries (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of Greek-style yoghurt
- Blend until smooth and serve chilled.
Tropical Smoothie:
- 1 bottle of Hot Tropical Ginger or Mango flavoured Fortisip
- 1 cup of frozen pineapple chunks
- 1/4 cup coconut cream
- A handful of ice
- Blend until slushy and serve.
Delicious desserts and puddings
Incorporating Fortisip into desserts can turn your supplement dose into a treat. This can be particularly helpful for those with a sweet tooth or reduced appetite.
- Angel Delight: Mix a bottle of Vanilla or Caramel Fortisip with a packet of Angel Delight powder and milk. Whisk well and refrigerate to set, creating a fortified pudding.
- Ice Cream: Fortisip can be frozen into ice cream, providing a cool and tasty alternative. Simply combine with yoghurt and frozen fruit and freeze until firm.
- Fortified Custard: Make custard as you normally would and stir in a bottle of chilled Vanilla Fortisip once it has cooled slightly. Avoid boiling the supplement to preserve its nutrients.
Savoury meal enhancements
For those who prefer savoury options, Fortisip can be discreetly added to various hot and cold dishes. Using a neutral-flavoured Fortisip is best for savoury applications.
- Soup: Stir a bottle of Fortisip Compact Neutral into a tin of condensed soup or your homemade soup base. Gently warm but do not boil.
- Mash: Incorporate Neutral Fortisip or another mild flavour into mashed potatoes, mashed sweet potato, or mashed vegetables instead of or alongside milk or butter.
- Sauces and Gravy: Neutral Fortisip can be whisked into gravies or cheese sauces for extra nutritional support. Remember to heat gently and not boil.
Mixing with breakfast items
Start your day with a nutrient boost by mixing Fortisip into your morning meal.
- Porridge: Stir a bottle of Vanilla or Neutral Fortisip into cooked porridge oats after removing it from the heat. Top with honey, banana, or dried fruit.
- Bircher Muesli: Combine oats, Fortisip, and apple juice and leave to soak overnight in the fridge. Serve with grated apple, nuts, and berries.
- Fortified Waffles/Pancakes: Replace some of the milk or water in your waffle or pancake batter with Fortisip. For a stronger flavour, use chocolate or vanilla Fortisip.
Comparison of Fortisip mixing methods
| Mixing Method | Pros | Cons | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smoothies & Shakes | Great for masking flavour; Easy to increase calories; Refreshing and portable. | Requires a blender; Can alter consistency depending on ingredients. | Quick meals or snacks; Weight gain support. | Use frozen fruit for best texture. |
| Desserts & Puddings | Turns supplement into a treat; Good for those with low appetite. | Often higher in sugar; Less portable. | Boosting calories in an enjoyable way. | Watch for high sugar intake; Avoid overheating. |
| Savoury Foods | Avoids sweet taste fatigue; Can be incorporated into main meals. | Only suitable with neutral or very mild flavours; Potential for flavour clash. | Patients needing variety beyond sweet flavours. | Use low-sodium options where possible. |
| Breakfast Items | Integrates into a daily routine; Convenient for morning intake. | Can require cooking, potentially reducing some nutrients. | Consistent morning nutrient boost. | Gentle warming is key; Do not boil. |
A note on safety
When mixing Fortisip, particularly with warm or hot foods, it is crucial to avoid boiling the product. Excessive heat can damage the vitamins and proteins, reducing the nutritional value of the supplement. Add Fortisip towards the end of the cooking process, after removing the food from the heat source. Always follow your healthcare provider's recommendations regarding portion sizes and frequency. Unused portions should be consumed within 24 hours and stored in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Mixing Fortisip with various drinks and foods is an excellent strategy to improve palatability and ensure consistent nutritional intake. Whether you prefer sweet shakes, savoury soups, or comforting desserts, there is a recipe that can make your oral nutritional supplement a more positive experience. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before modifying your dietary plan to ensure it remains safe and effective for your specific health needs. Embracing these simple culinary adaptations can make all the difference in achieving your nutritional goals.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary regimen.
Here is some additional resource information on Nutricia's ONS recipes.