What is ENSURE PLUS? An Overview
ENSURE PLUS is a therapeutic nutritional supplement manufactured by Abbott Nutrition, a leader in the healthcare industry. It is formulated to be a more calorie-dense and protein-rich alternative to the standard Ensure Original shake, making it suitable for those with higher nutritional requirements. Each serving contains a potent blend of high-quality protein, calories, vitamins, and minerals to support overall health and wellness. It is often prescribed by healthcare professionals for specific dietary purposes, either as a supplemental drink or as a sole source of nutrition under medical supervision. The shake is typically gluten-free and suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance, making it accessible to a wider range of patients.
The Core Purpose: Weight Gain and Nutritional Recovery
At its heart, the main purpose of ENSURE PLUS is to address involuntary weight loss and malnutrition. Many people, especially seniors, those recovering from surgery, or individuals with chronic illnesses, struggle to consume enough calories and protein through regular meals. ENSURE PLUS fills this nutritional gap with its concentrated formula. The high-calorie content provides the necessary energy for the body, while the generous amount of protein helps support muscle health and repair. For many patients, a few shakes a day can make a significant difference in their ability to regain strength and improve their nutritional status. The drink is also particularly useful for individuals with mild fluid restrictions, as it delivers more nutrients in a smaller volume compared to other formulas.
Key Uses and Applications of ENSURE PLUS
ENSURE PLUS is a versatile supplement with several primary applications:
- Combating Malnutrition: For patients who are malnourished or at risk, ENSURE PLUS offers a reliable way to get complete, balanced nutrition. It provides a comprehensive mix of macronutrients and essential vitamins to restore the body's nutrient levels.
- Post-Surgery and Illness Recovery: Following a surgery or illness, the body's energy and protein demands increase significantly to aid in healing. ENSURE PLUS supplies these extra nutritional needs when a patient may have a poor appetite or difficulty eating solid food.
- Supporting Involuntary Weight Loss: This product is clinically proven to help individuals gain weight and can be an effective part of a weight management plan. The concentrated calories make it easier to increase daily intake without feeling overly full.
- Supplementing the Diet: For those who simply need a nutritional boost, ENSURE PLUS can be used as a snack or occasional meal replacement. This is common for older adults who want to supplement their diet to ensure they receive all necessary nutrients.
- Providing Sole-Source Nutrition: In some clinical settings and for certain medical conditions, ENSURE PLUS may be used as an interim sole-source of nutrition for oral feeding, and in some cases, for tube feeding. This should always be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
ENSURE PLUS vs. Ensure Original: A Comparison
| Feature | ENSURE PLUS | Ensure Original |
|---|---|---|
| Calories (per 8 fl oz) | 350 | 220–250 |
| Protein (per 8 fl oz) | 16 g | 9 g |
| Energy Density | More concentrated (1.5 kcal/mL) | Less concentrated (approx. 1.0 kcal/mL) |
| Target Audience | Individuals needing to gain or maintain weight, those at risk of malnutrition, or with increased caloric needs | General everyday health, covering basic nutritional gaps |
| Key Benefit | Higher calorie and protein content for rapid weight gain and recovery | Standard, balanced nutrition for weight maintenance |
| Suitability for Fluid Restrictions | More suitable for individuals on mild fluid restrictions due to higher caloric density | Less suitable than Ensure Plus for patients with fluid restrictions |
Potential Side Effects and Considerations
While generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience side effects when consuming ENSURE PLUS. The most commonly reported side effects relate to gastrointestinal distress, which can include bloating, gas, and diarrhea. For those with lactose intolerance, these issues may be more pronounced, although the product is suitable for most cases of lactose intolerance. It is also important to note that nutritional supplements like ENSURE PLUS can interact with certain medications, such as blood-thinners like Warfarin, due to high levels of Vitamin K. As with any dietary change, consulting a healthcare provider or registered dietitian is crucial to ensure it is appropriate for your specific health needs and goals.
Conclusion: A Powerful Tool for Targeted Nutrition
In summary, the purpose of ENSURE PLUS is to deliver a potent dose of balanced, complete nutrition for those with elevated energy and protein needs. Its concentrated formula makes it an effective tool for managing involuntary weight loss, recovering from illness, and combating malnutrition, especially for seniors and other vulnerable populations. While it serves as a valuable nutritional aid, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution and should be used under medical supervision, taking into account individual health conditions and dietary requirements. For many, it is a crucial component in their journey towards improved health and vitality.
