best supplements

Liquid nutrition products like Ensure (tm) and Boost (tm) have been used almost exclusively in nursing homes and hoispitals
until recently. Lately we have seen nutritional companies marketing these drinks to people of all ages and all stages of health.

Liquid supplements are supposed to be the answer for busy moms running around with the kids
business people running out the door out without time for a sit-down breakfast
and older adults wanting to insure that they will be able to enjoy their grandchildren. But what do these liquid nutrion product really offer?

In general
these supplements are composed of water
sugar
milk and soy proteins
oils
vitamins
and minerals. An 8-ounce can generally has 250 calories
and the deluxe version may have as many as 355 calories. Most are lactose free
some have added fiber
and some are specifically designed for children or adults with certain health problems.

These companies are also selling supplements in the form of pudding cups and candy bar type products
with varous nutrientional content.

What nutritional need are companies trying to help consumers answer? Below are some of the reasons companies give for buying their products.

These companies ad campaigns are using fear tactics to make you worry that you are not getting proper nutrition from your ordinary meals. True
some people are consuming less than the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for some nutrients
this doesn't mean they will develop a deficiency disease. If you truly feel you are not getting enough nutrients from your food
you should contact a registered dietitian or a KSU Extension Specialist in nutrition. They can help you determine your needs for additional supplements.

These “Eat on The run” Liquid supplements may be a quick way to get vitamins
minerals and protein
but there is more needed for good health! Scientists continue to discover new ingredienets in foods that provide health benefits. Consider this; the canned supplements have a severe lack of fiber and other healthy components but are really high in sugars and calories. Although this was ideal for the original intent of the products
most healthy consumers don’t want or need all the extra calories that the supplement provides.

In summary
while there is a need for liquid nutritional supplements in some medical conditions
these products are unnecessary for the average
healthy person. In addition
one must consider the cost of an 8 once can of these liquid supplements to determine if they should be included in their dietary regimen.