Why Is Ensure Plus Prescribed?
Ensure Plus is a therapeutic nutritional supplement, typically used under medical supervision, designed to provide complete and balanced nutrition for specific health needs. Its main purpose is to deliver dense calories and protein to help individuals achieve or maintain a healthy weight when their regular diet is insufficient.
Supporting Weight Gain and Recovery
Ensure Plus is frequently prescribed for individuals who need to gain weight due to being underweight or experiencing unintended weight loss, often linked to chronic illnesses, advanced age, or poor appetite. It is also valuable for those recovering from illness, surgery, or injury, providing the increased protein and calories needed for healing and regaining strength, particularly when chewing or swallowing solid food is difficult.
Addressing Malnutrition and Nutritional Deficiencies
Healthcare professionals may recommend Ensure Plus for individuals diagnosed with or at risk of malnutrition caused by disease, poor food intake, metabolic stress, or nutrient absorption issues. It serves as a reliable source of essential vitamins, minerals, protein, and calories to correct deficiencies and support overall health. This is especially relevant for older adults who may have decreased appetite or difficulty eating, helping them maintain strength and muscle mass.
Special Dietary Considerations
Ensure Plus is formulated to be suitable for certain dietary needs, being gluten-free and generally tolerated by individuals with lactose intolerance (though not suitable for those with galactosemia). This expands its usability for patients with specific dietary restrictions.
Comparison: Ensure Plus vs. Ensure Original
| Feature | Ensure Plus | Ensure Original |
|---|---|---|
| Calories (per 8 fl oz) | 350 | 250 |
| Protein (per 8 fl oz) | 16 grams | 9 grams |
| Main Goal | Weight gain, recovery, malnutrition management | Everyday health, general nutritional support, weight maintenance |
| Caloric Density | Higher (1.5 kcal/mL) | Lower |
| Ideal For | Individuals with high caloric needs, significant weight loss | Healthy adults needing a nutritional boost or weight maintenance |
Key Nutrients and Their Benefits
- High-Quality Protein: Crucial for muscle repair and growth, supporting strength and recovery.
- Concentrated Calories: Provides the necessary energy for weight gain and maintenance, particularly when appetite is poor.
- 27 Essential Vitamins & Minerals: Offers comprehensive micronutrient support to prevent and correct deficiencies.
- Antioxidants (Vitamins C & E, Selenium): Supports immune function, important during recovery.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Contributes to heart health from a plant-based source.
Additional Considerations for Use
Beyond the primary indications, Ensure Plus may also be considered under medical guidance for:
- Cancer Support: Helping cancer patients manage weight loss and poor appetite often associated with treatment.
- Fluid Restrictions: Delivering substantial nutrition in a smaller volume for patients who need to limit fluid intake.
- Post-Operative Support: Used as part of nutritional support plans, sometimes alongside specialized formulas like Ensure Surgery, to aid recovery. You can find more information on Abbott's website.
Conclusion: Targeted Nutritional Solution
Ensure Plus is a valuable clinical nutrition product designed to address specific health issues like weight loss, malnutrition, and the increased nutritional demands of recovery. By delivering a concentrated mix of calories, protein, and essential micronutrients, it assists individuals who cannot meet their dietary requirements through food alone. It serves as an important tool for healthcare professionals to support patients through recovery and manage long-term nutritional well-being. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider to determine if Ensure Plus is appropriate for your specific needs and how best to incorporate it into your diet.
