Practical Comparison Of Nutritional Supplement Drinks

The chart below was devised to compare three nutritional drink supplements as well as showcase a convenient “real food” counterpart—low-fat yogurt and an orange.

*Prices based on an Illinois grocery store in 2009. Prices in your area may differ. All samples tested were vanilla flavored.

Breaking The Supplement Products Down...

• The products are not hugely different in their calorie, carbohydrate or fat content.
• Of the supplements, Carnation® Instant Breakfast Essentials™ has the lowest fat and the most calcium.
• All of the products but Ensure® are sorely deficient in fiber.
• Carnation® Instant Breakfast Essentials™ is the cheapest supplement per serving and according to the chart, the best tasting.

The gold medal though, definitely goes to the low-fat yogurt and orange for more nutrient-dense ingredients, fiber, vitamin C and photochemicals, as well as low-fat and high-calcium content, cheapest price and best taste.

Healthy guidelines for supplement users

For those who struggle to meet caloric intake, supplements can be helpful. Below are guidelines to be certain the body is receiving the nutrients it needs:

• At least 5 fruit and vegetable servings daily.

• 6–11 servings of grain products daily, preferably from whole-grain and high fiber sources.

• 2–3 low-fat or non-fat servings of dairy products daily.

• 2–3 low-fat protein servings daily.

Those who are drinking lots of supplement drinks, but not following the above guidelines, are not being provided with optimal nutrition.

If you or a loved one need assistance preparing and planning healthy meals, contact us for more information about how an in home caregiver can help you with your nutrition needs.