What are Oral Nutrition Supplements? 

  • Oral nutrition supplements are complete nutrition formulas that help individuals to get the nutrition they need when they cannot get enough from their regular food. 
  • When a person is sick or does not feel like eating, these supplements can help them get the right amount of nutrients they need. 
  • You can find these supplements in liquid form (milk-based or juice-based) or powder form.  
  • Majority of these supplements do not have lactose, a type of sugar in milk that some people cannot digest. They help you stay healthy and strong, avoid getting sick easily, and feel better in general.  

Which is Right for Me? 

  • There are several types of oral nutrition supplements you can choose from. 
  • The best one for you depends on your medical conditions and what your body requires. 
  • It is a good idea to talk to a doctor or a dietitian to help you choose and to know how much and when to take them. 
  • If you are allergic or intolerant to certain foods, make sure to tell your doctor or dietitian. 

Examples of oral nutrition supplements available in Singapore

ONS_examples.png
*This is not an endorsement of any brands. Images shown are for illustrative purposes only; actual packaging may differ depending on changes made by respective brands.  

Where Can I Buy Oral Nutrition Supplements? 

  • You can buy these supplements at hospitals, retail pharmacies, online, or directly from their companies.  

How Much Should I Take? 

  • How much supplement you should take depends on what your body needs. 
  • Your doctor or dietitian will advise you on how much to take. 
  • If you are using a powder supplement, it is important to mix it according to the recommended instructions and use the scoop that comes with it.  

When Should I Take Them? 

  • You can take oral nutrition supplements after meals, between meals, or before bedtime, but follow what your doctor or dietitian says. 
  • You can drink them straight from the bottle or packet. 
  • If you open a liquid supplement, cover it up. You can keep it at room temperature for up to 4 hours or in the fridge for up to 24 hours. 
  • You need to thicken your oral nutrition supplement to the right consistency, as your speech therapist suggests. 

How Can I Make Oral Nutritional Supplements Taste Better? 

Everyone feels differently about the taste of supplements. Here are some tips to make them taste better: 

  • Serve them at the temperature you like. If you like warm drinks, warm up the supplement in hot water or mix it with a little warm water. Do not boil or microwave it, as this can destroy some nutrients. 
  • If you like cold drinks, chill them, or add ice cubes. 
  • Mix them with fruits to make a milkshake or smoothie. 
  • Mix them with coffee, tea, or chocolate malt. 
  • Freeze them into ice pops. 
  • Add or sprinkle them into foods like oatmeal, creamed soup, pudding, custard, or pancakes. 

Acknowledgements

Community Dietetics and Nutrition Workgroup (Feb 2022 – Dec 2024) – Dietitians from Public Healthcare Institutions, College of Family Physicians Singapore, Nurses from Polyclinics and Community Care Sector