Boosting your energy and protein

Macmillan Cancer Support Medical Reference

If you have a good appetite, you should have no trouble eating the extra energy and protein foods that you may need if you are ill. However, if your appetite is not very good there are two ways to add extra energy and protein to your diet, without actually having to eat more food.

The first is to use everyday foods that are high in energy and protein. Meat, fish, lentils, eggs and cheese are all good sources of protein which also provide energy.

The second is to use manufactured food supplements. They can be taken as nourishing drinks, which are available as milkshakes or soups. Some supplements are high-protein powders that can be added to your normal food.

Manufactured food supplements

Many supplements are available to add extra energy and/or protein to your diet. They are usually available from your chemist.

• Some are available on prescription from your doctor.
• Some supplements are available ready to drink or use, and others are powders that need to be mixed with liquid.
• Some can be added to food.

Important note: High-protein supplements should only be used with advice from your doctor or dietitian. Most people will need extra energy balanced with extra protein. Many of these products can be used by people with diabetes. However, if you are diabetic, seek advice from your doctor, specialist nurse or dietitian before using food supplements.

Once mixed, complete milk-tasting supplements and powders should be drunk slowly over a period of 20 minutes.

For more information on eating well during and after cancer treatment, and further support to deal with the practical and emotional effects of cancer, visit Macmillan Cancer Support’s website.