High Calorie Diet

High Calorie, High Protein Diet

All people need calories and protein found in food for normal body functions and health. Calories provide energy to help keep the body functioning and to do physical work. We need protein to build, maintain and repair body tissue. When there is a need to build new tissue, your calorie, protein and nutrient needs increase. High calorie, high protein diets help to heal wounds, maintain or increase weight, or promote growth, and resist or fight infection. When your wounds are healed and you are at a desirable body weight, you may return to normal eating habits. If you have kidney or liver problems, please talk with a registered dietitian.

Guidelines

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Your weight is the best way to tell if you are getting enough calories. Try to check your weight twice a week. If your weight decreases each time you weigh yourself, increase the amount of calories in your diet. Call a University Hospital dietitian at (614) 293-8658 for suggestions. Eat a balanced diet including a variety of foods. Eat small, frequent meals to increase your calorie and protein intake. Follow these general guidelines: Drink at least 2 cups or more of milk if tolerated. Use lactose-free milk if you have a hard time digesting regular milk products. Use whole milk to get the most calories. Also include other milk products such as cheese, ice cream, pudding or yogurt. Eat 2 or more 3-ounce servings of meat, poultry or fish, or meat substitute such as eggs, beans, peas, lentils, cheese or peanut butter. Tofu and other soy products may also be used. More on next page Learn more about your health care.

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© Copyright, (2007 - 11/1/2010) The Ohio State University Medical Center, Nutrition Services - Upon request all patient education handouts are available in other formats for people with special hearing, vision and language needs, call (614) 293-3191.

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Eat 2 or more servings of fruit or fruit juice each day. Eat 3 or more servings of vegetables each day....