Understanding Altraplen
Altraplen is a brand of oral nutritional supplements (ONS) manufactured by Nualtra. It comes in a ready-to-drink, milkshake-style format and is designed to provide high levels of energy, protein, and micronutrients. As a 'Food for Special Medical Purposes,' its use is reserved for patients who have been screened for or are at risk of disease-related malnutrition (DRM). The specific formula prescribed depends on the patient's individual nutritional needs, which is why it must be used under the guidance of a medical professional.
Key ingredients in Altraplen
All Altraplen products are formulated to be nutritionally complete and contain a balanced blend of macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates, fat) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals). For example, the protein variety includes:
- High-quality milk and soya protein to support muscle mass and repair.
- Vitamins such as Vitamin A, C, D3, E, and B-complex vitamins.
- Minerals and trace elements like calcium, iron, zinc, and selenium.
- Maltodextrin and glucose syrup for a concentrated energy source.
Key Uses for Altraplen Nutritional Supplements
The primary goal of using Altraplen is to provide nutritional support where normal food intake is insufficient or inadequate. Some of the most common applications include:
Managing disease-related malnutrition
For patients with a condition that makes it difficult to maintain a healthy weight and nutrient intake, Altraplen can serve as a supplementary or even a sole source of nutrition. This includes individuals with conditions like cancer, cystic fibrosis, or other chronic illnesses that affect appetite and nutrient absorption. The supplement ensures the body receives the necessary energy and building blocks to maintain health during illness.
Support for surgical recovery and wound healing
Post-surgery and during recovery from chronic wounds, the body's nutritional requirements increase significantly to facilitate tissue repair. The high protein and energy content in products like Altraplen Protein are specifically formulated to assist with this process, helping patients heal faster and regain strength.
Addressing poor appetite and weight loss
Many elderly patients and those undergoing certain medical treatments experience a poor appetite, leading to unintended weight loss and a decline in overall health. Altraplen offers a dense, easy-to-consume source of nutrition to counteract this. The availability of multiple flavours also helps improve patient compliance.
For those needing a compact, high-calorie option
Some patients find it difficult to consume large volumes of liquid. Altraplen Compact and Altraplen Compact Daily provide a high energy and protein content in a smaller serving size (e.g., 125ml for Compact). This compact format is advantageous for those with fluid restrictions or a low tolerance for larger volumes.
Altraplen Varieties: Protein vs. Energy vs. Compact
Nualtra offers different versions of Altraplen, each with a slightly different nutritional profile. The choice depends on the specific clinical needs of the patient.
| Feature | Altraplen Protein (200ml) | Altraplen Energy (200ml) | Altraplen Compact (125ml) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy | 300 kcal | 300 kcal | 300 kcal |
| Protein | 20g (High) | 12g | 12g |
| Volume | 200ml | 200ml | 125ml (Compact) |
| Primary Use | High protein needs (e.g., wound healing, muscle wasting) | General malnutrition, supplementing diet | Fluid restriction or low volume tolerance |
| Key Benefit | Targeted support for tissue repair | Balanced energy and protein in a standard size | Maximum energy/protein in minimum volume |
How is Altraplen Used? (Dosage and Administration)
Dosage and frequency are determined by a healthcare professional based on the patient's nutritional assessment. Altraplen is ready to drink and can be consumed chilled or at room temperature. It should be shaken well before opening. For best results, it is often consumed slowly, either between meals to supplement intake or in controlled servings if used as a sole source of nutrition.
Who Should Not Use Altraplen?
Like all Food for Special Medical Purposes, there are contraindications and precautions for using Altraplen. It is not suitable for:
- Children under 3 years old.
- Patients with galactosaemia.
- Individuals with a cow's milk protein allergy.
- Use in children under 6 years should be closely monitored by a dietitian or physician.
While generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience gastrointestinal discomfort or other side effects. If any adverse reactions occur, a healthcare provider should be consulted.
Conclusion
Altraplen is a versatile and nutritionally complete oral supplement range used to manage and prevent disease-related malnutrition in adults. Its application extends from supporting recovery after surgery and assisting with wound healing to helping manage weight loss in elderly patients with poor appetites. With different formulations tailored to specific needs, Altraplen provides a medically-supervised solution for individuals with increased nutritional requirements. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any nutritional supplement. For more detailed product specifications, you can visit the manufacturer's website, Nualtra, which features information on their Altraplen range.
