What drink is good for malnutrition? Expert-backed options reviewed

December 20, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the World Health Organization, malnutrition is a serious health concern globally that often compromises the body's ability to heal and function effectively. Finding out what drink is good for malnutrition is a critical step, as nutrient-dense fluids can be an easy-to-consume and highly effective way to deliver vital calories, protein, and vitamins to those with a poor appetite or difficulty eating.

Quick Summary

Nutrient-rich drinks, such as fortified whole milk, homemade high-calorie smoothies, and commercial supplements, can combat malnutrition by boosting energy and protein intake.

Key Points

Fortified Milk is a Powerhouse: Whisking skimmed milk powder into whole milk creates a simple yet effective high-calorie, high-protein drink base for various beverages.
Homemade Smoothies Offer Customization: Blend ingredients like avocado, peanut butter, and Greek yogurt for personalized, nutrient-dense shakes tailored to individual taste and needs.
Commercial Shakes Provide Convenience: Ready-to-drink options like Ensure and Boost are formulated for balanced nutrition and require no preparation, making them ideal for busy schedules or low energy days.
Oral Rehydration is Critical: For cases involving dehydration, particularly with diarrhea, oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are essential, as recommended by the World Health Organization.
Prioritize Nourishing Fluids: For those with a small appetite, always choose nourishing drinks like juice or fortified milk over plain water, as they provide both hydration and valuable nutrients.
Sip Slowly Throughout the Day: Instead of large portions that can be overwhelming, sip smaller amounts of high-calorie drinks frequently to maximize intake and minimize discomfort.

Why Focus on Drinks for Combating Malnutrition?

When solid food is unappealing or difficult to chew and swallow, liquids become a lifeline for maintaining nutritional status. Drinks that are high in calories and protein can help prevent further weight loss and promote healing. They are generally easier to consume in smaller, more frequent portions throughout the day, which can be less overwhelming for someone with a reduced appetite. Fortifying common beverages is a simple yet powerful strategy to maximize nutritional intake without significantly increasing volume.

Nutrient-Packed Homemade Drink Options

Creating high-calorie, high-protein drinks at home allows for customization and can often be more cost-effective than commercial products. Here are some of the best DIY options:

Fortified Milk: A simple and effective base for many drinks. By whisking skimmed milk powder into whole milk, you create a protein and calorie powerhouse. Use this enriched milk for cereals, hot chocolate, or milky coffee.
High-Calorie Smoothies: Blend whole milk or a non-dairy alternative with ingredients like peanut butter, avocado, Greek yogurt, and rolled oats for a truly energy-dense shake. You can also add a scoop of protein powder for an extra boost.
Nutrient-Enriched Juices: For those who prefer non-milky options, fortified fruit juice can provide a calorie lift. Mixing concentrated high-juice cordial with egg white powder is one method, though less common. Commercial juices with added vitamins are also an option.
Creamy Soups: Soups made with whole milk, heavy cream, or condensed milk instead of water can provide significant calories and protein. Adding skimmed milk powder to creamy soups is another fortification technique.

The Role of Commercial Nutritional Shakes

For convenience and guaranteed nutritional content, commercial supplements are an excellent choice. Products like Ensure, Boost, and Glucerna (for those with diabetes) are formulated to provide a balanced mix of protein, carbs, fats, vitamins, and minerals. They are available in various flavors and are ready-to-drink, making them an easy option for on-the-go or for those with limited energy for food preparation.

Comparison of Homemade vs. Commercial Drinks


Feature	Homemade Nutrient-Dense Drinks	Commercial Nutritional Shakes
Cost	Generally more cost-effective	Can be more expensive, especially long-term
Customization	Full control over ingredients, flavor, and texture	Limited by available flavors and formulas
Nutrient Density	Can be tailored to specific needs (e.g., high protein, extra fat)	Formulated for a specific balance of macronutrients and vitamins
Convenience	Requires preparation, including blending and mixing	Ready-to-drink, requiring no preparation
Taste	Can be adjusted based on personal preference	Relies on manufacturer's flavor profiles
Availability	Requires shopping for multiple ingredients	Found in supermarkets and pharmacies

Addressing Dehydration in Malnutrition

Dehydration is a serious risk for those with malnutrition and can worsen symptoms like weakness and confusion. While nutrient-dense drinks are vital for calorie intake, proper hydration is also crucial. Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS), as recommended by the WHO, are crucial for severe dehydration, especially if accompanied by diarrhea. For milder cases, prioritizing nourishing fluids over plain water can address both fluid and nutrient needs.

Important Considerations for Safe Consumption

Sip, don't gulp: It is often easier to consume nourishing drinks by sipping them slowly over an hour, rather than trying to finish a large portion at once.
Small, frequent intake: Encourage consuming small portions throughout the day, in between meals or as snacks, to avoid feeling too full to eat solid foods.
Address underlying causes: While drinks are a great tool, it's important to treat the root cause of malnutrition, which may require professional help.
Consult a professional: Before making significant dietary changes, especially for individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes, it is essential to consult with a doctor or registered dietitian.

In conclusion, a variety of options exist for addressing malnutrition through beverages, from easily fortified milk and customizable homemade smoothies to convenient commercial nutritional shakes. The best choice depends on individual needs, taste preferences, and specific health concerns. By strategically incorporating these nutrient-dense fluids, it is possible to significantly boost caloric and protein intake, supporting recovery and overall health. For further guidance on treatment, consider resources from reputable health organizations like the NHS.(https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/malnutrition/treatment/)

Conclusion: Fueling Recovery Through Strategic Beverages

For individuals with a poor appetite, consuming enough food to combat malnutrition can be a significant challenge. Fortunately, the strategic use of high-calorie and high-protein drinks offers a highly effective solution. From simple homemade fortifications, like adding milk powder to whole milk, to the convenience of commercial shakes like Ensure, these beverages provide a vital lifeline for increasing nutrient intake. For those with severe dehydration, oral rehydration solutions are essential, but for daily maintenance, prioritizing nutrient-dense fluids over plain water can make a substantial difference. Consulting a healthcare professional is always recommended to tailor a plan to specific health needs. The right drink can provide the necessary fuel to aid recovery and improve overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fortified milk is whole milk with added skimmed milk powder to increase its calorie and protein content. To make it, whisk 2 to 4 heaped tablespoons of skimmed milk powder into one pint of whole milk until dissolved.

Yes, you can use fortified milk in any recipe that calls for regular milk. It works well in hot chocolate, coffee, milkshakes, porridge, or poured over cereal.

Neither is inherently better; the best choice depends on your needs. Commercial shakes offer convenience and a guaranteed nutrient balance, while homemade shakes allow for greater customization and can be more cost-effective.

If you are lactose intolerant or prefer a non-dairy option, use alternatives like soy milk, coconut milk, or almond milk as a base for your fortified drinks. You can also explore commercial products that are lactose-free.

Fruit juice and some drinks with added sugar can contribute calories, but they often lack the protein needed for recovery. They should be consumed in moderation or fortified, and not relied on as the sole source of liquid nutrition.

Try offering small, frequent servings of nutrient-dense drinks throughout the day. Experiment with different flavors and textures, or serve them in small, attractive glasses. Prioritize these nourishing fluids over plain water to maximize nutrition.

The duration of needing high-calorie drinks depends on individual progress and overall dietary intake. The goal is to return to a more solid, balanced diet. It is best to follow a plan set by a healthcare professional.