Nutridream: Medical Nutrition Drinks
Nutridream is a medical nutrition drink series made by Nutricia, part of the Danone Medical Nutrition group. These drinks are designed for patients who cannot get enough energy and nutrients through normal eating — whether due to illness, post-surgical recovery, or age-related appetite loss.
This article explains who Nutridream is for, how it differs from regular protein shakes, and what you should know before using it.
TL;DR
- Nutridream is a medical oral nutritional supplement (ONS), not a regular protein shake
- Contains balanced macro- and micronutrients: protein, fats, carbs, vitamins, and minerals
- Target audience: patients at risk of malnutrition, elderly, oncology patients, pre- and post-surgical patients
- Used on doctor's recommendation, not as a standalone training supplement
- Available in Estonia at pharmacies and specialty stores
Who needs medical nutritional supplementation?
Malnutrition is a surprisingly common problem in Europe. The European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) estimates that up to 33% of hospital patients are at risk of malnutrition (Cederholm et al., 2017). In Estonia, the problem is especially acute among the elderly — malnutrition occurs in an estimated 15-25% of those over 65, depending on living environment.
Medical nutritional supplements like Nutridream are indicated in the following situations:
- Oncology patients — Chemotherapy and radiation reduce appetite and damage mucous membranes, making eating difficult
- Post-surgical patients — The body needs elevated protein intake for tissue repair during recovery
- Elderly with appetite loss — Smell and taste sensitivity decline with age, reducing appetite (Morley, 2012)
- Chronic lung diseases (COPD) — Breathing difficulties increase energy needs but make eating harder
- Patients with swallowing difficulties — After stroke or in neurological conditions
Nutridream composition and nutritional value
Nutridream differs from a regular protein shake in that it contains a balanced combination of all macronutrients, not just protein.
Typical composition per 200ml bottle:
| Nutrient | Amount | % of daily needs |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 300 kcal | ~15% |
| Protein | 12-20g | ~25-40% |
| Fats | 12g | ~17% |
| Carbohydrates | 35-40g | ~13% |
| Fibre | 0-3g | Varies |
| Vitamins | 28 vitamins and minerals | ~25-30% each |
The key difference from training supplements: Nutridream contains not only macronutrients but a complete spectrum of vitamins and minerals. One bottle covers roughly a quarter of daily micronutrient needs.
Nutridream vs training supplements
A common question is whether Nutridream can be used as a training protein or vice versa. Short answer: these are different products for different purposes.
| Feature | Nutridream (ONS) | Protein powder |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Treating/preventing malnutrition | Increasing protein intake |
| Calories | High (1.5 kcal/ml) | Low (~120 kcal/serving) |
| Protein | Balanced (12-20g) | High (20-30g) |
| Vitamins/minerals | Full spectrum | None or minimal |
| Flavours | Limited (vanilla, chocolate, strawberry) | Wide range |
| Price | €3-5 per bottle | €0.80-1.50 per serving |
| Usage | On doctor's advice | Self-directed |
For athletes: If your goal is muscle growth and you eat normally, Nutridream is not a sensible choice. Standard whey protein is cheaper, higher in protein, and designed for training goals.
For those at malnutrition risk: Protein powder cannot replace Nutridream because it lacks the necessary vitamins, minerals, and sufficient calories.
How to use Nutridream
Basic rules
1. Doctor's recommendation — Nutridream is a medical product. Consult your doctor first, who will assess your nutritional status.
2. Between meals, not instead — Drink Nutridream between meals as a nutritional supplement. It does not replace regular meals.
3. Temperature — Serve chilled (refrigerator temperature) for best taste. Some variants can also be warmed.
4. Consistency — Results come from regular use. One bottle per day will not produce instant results, but nutritional markers improve over 4-6 weeks (Stratton et al., 2003).
Dosing
- Mild malnutrition: 1 bottle (200ml) per day
- Moderate malnutrition: 2 bottles per day
- Severe malnutrition: 2-3 bottles per day (under medical supervision)
Common mistakes
1. Using as a training supplement — Nutridream is calorie-dense and high in carbohydrates. For a healthy athlete, this means unnecessary calories.
2. Skipping the doctor — Malnutrition requires professional assessment. Self-diagnosing and self-treating may mask more serious health problems.
3. Replacing all meals — Nutridream is a supplement, not a replacement. Normal food provides fibre and phytochemicals that drinks lack.
4. Ignoring shelf life — Store opened bottles in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy Nutridream without a prescription?
Yes, Nutridream is an over-the-counter product and does not require a prescription. However, it is recommended to start use on a doctor's advice, especially with chronic conditions.
Is Nutridream suitable for diabetics?
Standard Nutridream variants contain relatively high carbohydrates. Special low-glycaemic-index variants exist for diabetics (e.g., Nutricia Diasip). Consult your doctor.
Is Nutridream suitable for lactose intolerance?
Some Nutridream variants contain dairy-based ingredients and lactose. A lactose-free variant is available, but always check the label.
How long should I use Nutridream?
Usage duration depends on the condition. Post-surgically, typically 4-8 weeks. For chronic conditions, use may be long-term. The doctor regularly assesses whether continuation is needed.
How does Nutridream differ from Ensure?
Nutridream (Nutricia) and Ensure (Abbott) are both ONS products with similar goals. Main differences are in flavours, textures, and some micronutrient proportions. In terms of effectiveness, they are comparable.
Estonia context
In Estonia, Nutridream is available at pharmacies (Benu, Sudameapteek, Apotheka) and some specialty stores. Price typically ranges from €3-5 per bottle, which is more expensive than most training supplements but typical for medical nutrition drinks.
Some Estonian Health Insurance Fund regions compensate medical nutrition drink costs for patients with certain diagnoses. Ask your family doctor.
References
1. Cederholm, T., Barazzoni, R., Austin, P. et al. (2017). ESPEN guidelines on definitions and terminology of clinical nutrition. Clinical Nutrition, 36(1), 49-64.
2. Morley, J.E. (2012). Anorexia of aging: a true geriatric syndrome. Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging, 16(5), 422-425.
3. Stratton, R.J., Green, C.J. & Elia, M. (2003). Disease-related malnutrition: an evidence-based approach to treatment. CABI Publishing, Wallingford.
4. Milne, A.C., Potter, J., Vivanti, A. & Avenell, A. (2009). Protein and energy supplementation in elderly people at risk from malnutrition. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (2), CD003288.
See also:
- Nattokinase: Evidence-Based Guide for Cardiovascular and Circulation Support
- Ягоды Годжи: Complete Guide 2026
- Oat Bran Porridge: The Athlete's Breakfast Foundation
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