What is the nutritional value of Resource Ultra? A Comprehensive Breakdown
Resource Ultra is a specialized nutritional supplement from Nestlé Health Science, designed for individuals with increased energy and protein requirements. The product line includes several formulas, most notably a high-protein milky beverage and a clear fruit-flavored drink. The specific nutritional value of Resource Ultra varies significantly between these formulations, catering to different dietary needs and restrictions, such as those on a clear fluid diet. Both versions are formulated for medical purposes and should be used under medical supervision.
Core Macronutrient Profile: Protein, Carbs, and Fat
Resource Ultra's nutritional composition is built to provide high energy and protein in a compact volume. For example, the high-protein milky version offers a remarkable 32 grams of high-quality protein per 200 mL serving. This protein is sourced from whey and milk protein concentrates, with a significant proportion of whey protein, which is known for its fast absorption. In contrast, the Clear Fruit Flavoured beverage, which is fat-free, provides a lower but still substantial 14 grams of 100% whey protein per 200 mL serving. The high protein content supports muscle maintenance, repair, and overall recovery.
The carbohydrate content primarily consists of saccharose and glucose syrup, which provide a quick source of energy. The high-protein version delivers 450 calories per 200 mL, making it an extremely energy-dense supplement at 2.25 kcal/mL. The fat content varies; the milky version contains fats from sources like rapeseed oil, while the clear fruit option is fat-free, making it suitable for clear fluid diets or fat malabsorption conditions.
Comprehensive Vitamin and Mineral Fortification
Both Resource Ultra formulas are fortified with a wide spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals to address nutritional deficiencies common in patients with poor appetite or malnutrition. A single serving of the high-protein version contains 28 different kinds of vitamins and minerals, helping to meet daily requirements. The specific fortification includes:
- Fat-soluble vitamins: Vitamin A, D, E, and K.
- Water-soluble vitamins: A range of B-vitamins (B1, B2, B6, B12, Niacin, Folic acid, Biotin, Pantothenic acid) and Vitamin C.
- Essential minerals: Such as calcium phosphate, zinc sulphate, iron sulphate, magnesium phosphate, and potassium iodide.
These micronutrients are vital for numerous bodily functions, including immune support, bone health, energy metabolism, and wound healing, making Resource Ultra a comprehensive nutritional solution.
A Comparison of Resource Ultra Products
To better understand the nutritional value, here's a comparison of two popular Resource Ultra products based on a single 200 mL serving, based on data from Nestlé Health Science and affiliated distributors:
| Nutritional Component | Resource Ultra High Protein (Milky) | Resource Ultra Clear Fruit Flavoured | Target User Needs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy | 450 kcal | 300 kcal | For maximum energy density and severe malnutrition. |
| Protein | 32 g | 14 g | For highest protein intake, muscle mass maintenance, and tissue repair. |
| Fat | Present (Source: Rapeseed oil) | 0 g (Fat-free) | For general supplementation vs. clear fluid diets and fat malabsorption. |
| Protein Source | Whey Protein Concentrate and Milk Protein | 100% Whey Protein Isolate | For overall high-protein intake vs. specific whey-only requirement. |
| Leucine Content | 3 g | Not specified (100% whey) | Aids in muscle protein synthesis, especially for elderly. |
| Vitamins & Minerals | 28 kinds | Fortified with essential vitamins | Comprehensive micronutrient support vs. focused fortification. |
Benefits of Resource Ultra's Nutritional Profile
The specific nutritional makeup of Resource Ultra offers several key benefits, particularly for clinical nutrition settings. The high energy density allows for significant caloric intake in a small volume, beneficial for those with poor appetite. The high-quality whey protein is quickly digested, promoting efficient protein synthesis, which is crucial for recovering patients or elderly individuals at risk of sarcopenia. The wide range of vitamins and minerals helps correct potential deficiencies and supports general health. Furthermore, the availability of both a milky and a clear fluid option means the supplement can be adapted for a variety of patient needs and preferences, enhancing patient compliance. For instance, patients on a clear fluid diet before or after surgery can still receive vital nutrition from the clear beverage version.
Who Needs to Know the Nutritional Value?
Understanding what is the nutritional value of Resource Ultra is important for several groups:
- Healthcare Professionals: Doctors and dietitians use this information to determine if Resource Ultra is appropriate for a patient, and to calculate dosage based on the patient's specific energy, protein, and micronutrient needs. The product is intended for use under medical supervision.
- Patients and Caregivers: For those managing their own or a loved one's nutritional intake, knowing the content of calories, protein, and other nutrients helps them track and meet daily goals, especially during recovery from illness or surgery.
- Individuals with Malnutrition: This information is critical for those suffering from malnutrition, underweight, or other conditions requiring a boost in energy and protein intake to support recovery.
Conclusion: A Potent and Adaptable Nutritional Support
The nutritional value of Resource Ultra is defined by its high concentration of energy, high-quality protein, and comprehensive vitamin and mineral profile. Designed as a food for special medical purposes, it is not a simple dietary supplement but a targeted nutritional intervention. The availability of multiple formulations, including a milky high-protein drink and a clear, fat-free fruit beverage, provides flexibility to meet diverse patient needs, from countering severe malnutrition to supporting individuals on clear fluid diets. Always consult a healthcare professional before incorporating Resource Ultra into a dietary regimen to ensure it aligns with specific health goals and medical conditions.
Visit the official Nestlé Health Science website for specific product information.
