What is Ensure Plus High Protein?
Ensure Plus High Protein is a specialized oral nutritional supplement designed to provide complete and balanced nutrition for adults. It is part of the broader Ensure family but stands out due to its higher concentration of both protein and calories per serving compared to the standard versions. Each 8 fl oz bottle contains 20 grams of high-quality protein and 350 calories, along with 26-27 essential vitamins and minerals. This nutrient-dense formula is specifically tailored for individuals whose dietary needs cannot be met by regular food alone, due to illness, recovery, or other health conditions.
Core Benefits of Ensure Plus High Protein
Ensure Plus High Protein is more than just a protein shake; it's a comprehensive nutritional tool. Its concentrated formula offers several key benefits for specific users:
- Promotes Weight Gain and Maintenance: With 350 calories per serving, it's a valuable tool for those with increased caloric needs or who are experiencing involuntary weight loss. This high-calorie density helps prevent weight loss and promotes healthy weight gain in a controlled, balanced manner.
- Supports Muscle Health: The 20 grams of high-quality protein are crucial for maintaining and building muscle mass, especially for older adults or those recovering from surgery or illness who are at risk of muscle atrophy. Protein provides the necessary building blocks for muscle tissue repair and growth.
- Enhances Immune Function: Loaded with essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamins A, D, C, and E, as well as zinc and antioxidants, this supplement helps support the body's immune system. A strong immune system is vital for recovery and overall health, particularly for those with compromised nutritional status.
- Bolsters Bone Health: The formulation is an excellent source of vitamin D and calcium, two critical nutrients for maintaining strong and healthy bones. This is particularly beneficial for elderly adults and individuals with reduced mobility during recovery.
- Aids Digestive Health: Some formulations contain prebiotic fiber (FOS) to help maintain digestive regularity and promote a healthy digestive tract.
Who Should Use Ensure Plus High Protein?
This product is not for everyone but is specifically indicated for certain populations who need additional nutritional support. These groups include:
- Individuals with Malnutrition: Patients with existing malnutrition or those at risk of developing it due to an illness or condition can use this as a supplemental source of complete nutrition.
- Patients Experiencing Involuntary Weight Loss: For those who are losing weight unintentionally, the high calorie and protein content can help reverse this trend.
- Surgical and Illness Recovery: During and after a significant illness or surgery, the body's need for nutrients increases. Ensure Plus High Protein provides the necessary energy and protein to support a faster, more effective recovery.
- Older Adults: As people age, their appetite and ability to absorb nutrients can decrease. This supplement is an ideal way for older adults to ensure they meet their daily protein and nutrient needs to maintain strength and vitality.
- People with Fluid Restrictions: The calorie-dense formula is beneficial for patients on fluid restrictions who need to maximize their nutritional intake in a limited volume.
Comparison: Ensure Plus High Protein vs. Standard Ensure Plus
While both are nutritional supplements, they are formulated for slightly different needs. Understanding the distinction is key to choosing the right product.
| Feature | Ensure Plus High Protein | Standard Ensure Plus | Key Purpose | Target Audience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Protein per 8 fl oz | 20 grams | 16 grams | Provides significantly more protein for muscle support and repair. | Individuals needing maximum protein for muscle health and recovery. |
| Calories per 8 fl oz | 350 calories | 350 calories | Offers high caloric intake for weight gain and maintenance. | Those needing to prevent weight loss and maintain a healthy weight. |
| Nutrient Blend | Contains 26-27 vitamins and minerals. | Contains up to 28 essential vitamins and minerals. | Both provide comprehensive nutrition. | Both are used to provide complete, balanced nutrition. |
| Focus | Higher protein concentration for specific muscle health and recovery goals. | Balanced nutrition for general weight management and dietary supplementation. | Ensure Plus High Protein is geared towards higher protein intake, while Standard Ensure Plus focuses on overall nutritional completeness. | Patients with malnutrition, involuntary weight loss, and those in recovery. |
How to Incorporate Ensure Plus High Protein into Your Diet
For most people, incorporating Ensure Plus High Protein into their diet is straightforward, but it should be done under medical supervision, especially for therapeutic purposes.
- Shake Well: Before opening, it's essential to shake the bottle thoroughly to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Serve Cold: For the best taste and experience, serve the shake cold.
- Use as a Supplement: It can be consumed between meals to boost daily caloric and protein intake.
- Use as a Meal Replacement: In appropriate amounts, and under medical guidance, it can also function as a full meal replacement, especially for individuals who have difficulty consuming solid foods.
- Refrigerate After Opening: Any unused portion should be covered and refrigerated, and it should be consumed within 48 hours.
- Follow Medical Advice: The number of servings can vary based on individual needs and should be determined in consultation with a healthcare professional.
Conclusion
Ensure Plus High Protein serves as a powerful nutritional tool for individuals who need to supplement their diet with extra protein and calories. It's particularly effective for those dealing with malnutrition, unintended weight loss, and the recovery process from surgery or illness. By providing a concentrated source of high-quality protein, calories, and a comprehensive blend of vitamins and minerals, it actively supports muscle health, bolsters the immune system, and aids in maintaining a healthy weight. As with any therapeutic nutrition, it should be used under medical supervision to ensure it meets your specific health goals. For additional information on nutrition products, you may visit the official Ensure website.
