Understanding the Purpose of Fortijuice
Fortijuce, created by Nutricia, is a specialized oral nutritional supplement (ONS) with a juice-like consistency. This provides a refreshing alternative for patients who dislike milky supplements. Fortijuce's main role is to offer concentrated calories, protein, and micronutrients to individuals who cannot meet their nutritional needs through diet alone. It's classified as a 'Food for Special Medical Purposes' and must be used under medical supervision.
Core Indications for Fortijuice Use
Fortijuce is primarily indicated for addressing specific dietary challenges and medical conditions:
- Disease-related malnutrition: It helps increase energy intake in patients with malnutrition due to various illnesses.
- High energy requirements: The supplement benefits individuals with increased energy needs, such as during recovery.
- Fat-restricted diets: Being fat-free, Fortijuce suits patients requiring fat restriction due to issues with fat digestion or absorption.
- Residue-restricted diets: It is fibre-free, making it appropriate for those needing to reduce indigestible material, for example, before a medical procedure.
- Select mineral restrictions: Its reduced mineral content makes it suitable for patients needing to restrict minerals like sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, such as in renal replacement therapy.
How Fortijuce Works to Support Nutritional Health
Fortijuce provides nutritional benefits through its composition. Each 200ml bottle offers 300 calories, giving a significant energy boost in a small volume, important for patients with reduced appetite. The energy comes mainly from carbohydrates (glucose syrup and maltodextrin). It also includes 8g of whey protein isolate, a high-quality, easily digestible protein vital for muscle mass and recovery. Additionally, Fortijuce is fortified with 28 vitamins and minerals. It is also lactose-free and gluten-free, suitable for those with related intolerances.
Comparison: Fortijuce vs. Milky Oral Nutritional Supplements (ONS)
Choosing an ONS depends on patient preference and dietary needs. Here's a comparison between Fortijuce and standard milkshake-style supplements.
| Feature | Fortijuce (Juice Style) | Milky ONS (e.g., Fortisip) |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Light, fruity, and refreshing | Creamy and milkshake-like (e.g., vanilla, chocolate) |
| Fat Content | Fat-free (0g) | Contains fat |
| Fiber Content | Fiber-free (0g) | Can contain fiber (some variants) or be fiber-free |
| Target Audience | Patients disliking milky drinks, requiring fat or residue restriction | Patients tolerating or preferring creamy, milkshake consistency |
| Energy Density | High energy (1.5 kcal/ml, 300 kcal/bottle) | High energy (1.5-2.0 kcal/ml depending on variant) |
| Protein Source | Whey protein isolate (milk-based) | Cow's milk protein |
Practical Considerations for Fortijuce Users
For safe and effective use, patients should note that Fortijuce is a supplement to the diet, not a sole source of nutrition. It should be served chilled after shaking. Opened bottles need refrigeration and should be consumed within 24 hours.
Important Precautions and Contraindications
Fortijuce is not suitable or requires caution in certain situations:
- Galactosaemia: Not suitable for individuals with this condition.
- Cow's Milk Protein Allergy: Unsuitable due to the presence of whey protein.
- Age: Not recommended for children under three and use with caution in children aged 3 to 6.
- Medical Supervision: Always consult a healthcare professional for guidance on usage and quantity.
Conclusion
Fortijuce serves multiple purposes, primarily providing a palatable, high-energy, fat-free, and fibre-free nutritional boost for individuals with disease-related malnutrition or specific dietary needs. Its juice-style formulation offers a valuable alternative for those who dislike traditional milky supplements. By supplying essential nutrients, Fortijuce helps patients maintain healthy weight and nutritional status under medical supervision.
