Why Nutrition Matters Now
Recovery starts in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and continues on the ward. During critical illness, your body often uses stored fat and muscle for energy, leading to weight loss and weakness.
Immune Support: Helps fight and reduce the risk of further infections.
Strength: Rebuilds muscle to help you get moving and reduce hospital stay.
How You Were Fed in ICU
Depending on your condition, you may have received nutrition in various ways before reaching the ward:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Enteral (Tube) | Liquid nutrition via a thin tube through the nose into the stomach or bowel. |
| Parenteral (IV) | Nutrition delivered directly into the veins if the digestive system isn't working normally. |
| Oral | Eating and drinking normally, often supplemented with high-protein drinks. |
Overcoming Eating Difficulties
It is common to lack an appetite on the ward. Hormones from your immune system can slow stomach emptying, making you feel full quickly. You may also experience:
- Changes in taste (metallic or salty)
- Dry mouth or sore throat
- Feeling too tired/weak to feed yourself
- Anxiety or "mental fog" during mealtimes
Tips for Mealtimes
Maximize Intake
- Little & Often: Eat small snacks every 2-3 hours instead of large meals.
- Choose Wisely: Pick menu items marked as "High Energy" or "High Protein."
- Avoid Fillers: Don't drink just before meals and limit fizzy drinks.
Social & Physical Help
- Assistance: Ask staff to help cut up food or unwrap packaging.
- Positioning: Ensure you are sitting upright or in a chair before the tray arrives.
- Company: If possible, eat with relatives in the hospital canteen to boost appetite.
Recommended Hospital Snacks
Savoury
- Cheese & crackers
- Sandwiches
- Nuts or Crisps
Sweet
- Custard pots
- Rice pudding
- Cakes/Biscuits
Drinks
- Hot Chocolate
- Milkshakes
- Malted drinks
Supplements
- Fortified milk
- Nutrition puddings
"Every extra mouthful helps. If you find food tastes different or you are coughing when you swallow, please alert your nurse or doctor immediately."
Clinical Support
What is a Dietitian?
A registered health care professional who is an expert in the science of nutrition. They advise on how to use food to recover from illness.
Ask your doctor for a referral if you have worries about your weight or appetite.