Uncover the compliance blind spot in oral nutritional supplements: 3 research insights

Summary 

• Improving adherence to oral nutritional supplements (ONS) is vital for better health outcomes in patients and older adults. However, challenges like volume fatigue from large servings, flavor fatigue due to limited taste variety, and taste and smell alterations (TSAs) that diminish food enjoyment can hinder compliance.
• Research shows that smaller portion sizes, enhanced taste and sensory experiences, and novel formats that support a food first approach can significantly boost adherence to specialty nutrition regimens.
• Keep reading to explore science-backed strategies that place patients at the center of care, improving compliance through taste, format innovations, and personalized nutritional solutions.

Medical nutrition is designed to support and transform health outcomes for those most in need, from individuals living with health conditions to those navigating age-related changes or challenges. But despite its therapeutic potential, poor adherence to specialty nutrition regimens, specifically oral nutritional supplements (ONS), can limit the effectiveness of nutritional interventions. In fact, ONS compliance differs significantly between patients, with a systematic review of 46 studies revealing that compliance varied between 37 and 100%.¹  The reasons for this low and variable compliance are multifaceted. Yet, adherence is typically measured only by supplement intake. Thus, overlooking the complex factors and behaviors that influence a patient’s motivation and ability to follow their nutritional regimen, such as volume and flavor fatigue, TSAs, reduced appetite, and much more.

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