Many older people suffer from the “anorexia of ageing”. The best option for treating malnutrition is to enhance normal eating and drinking. Nutritional supplements for weight gain are generally not required unless body weight is unable to be maintained with a normal balanced diet, or if food cannot be eaten safely.

People with COPD are generally underweight, have reduced muscle mass and are often malnourished, leading to other health problems. Opportunities for dietary intervention should be explored, aiming at early detection and early treatment of involuntary weight loss.

When people are newly diagnosed with coeliac disease, their nutritional status is often compromised, and they may require repletion doses of vitamins and minerals. For remission a lifelong gluten free diet is required. Gluten free foods are now widely available however label reading is important.

Managing diet is a priority for the health and wellbeing of people with diabetes. Measures such as glycaemic index, glycaemic load, carbohydrate counting and introducing soluble fibre into the diet can be useful in managing glycaemic control. The purchase of special “diabetic” foods is unnecessary. It is more important to read and understand food labels.

Although breastfeeding is the best option for an infant, cows’ milk based formula is recommended if breast feeding does not occur. Soy based formula is rarely indicated and is not necessary for an infant with a cows’ milk allergy or lactose intolerance. Hydrolysed cows’ milk formula and lactose-free or lactose-reduced cows’ milk formula can be used in these circumstances.

In most cases, nutrient needs can be met by consuming a well balanced diet, without the need for supplements. When a nutrient is unable to be consumed in recommended amounts, fortified foods can provide an alternative source. Supplements may be appropriate in certain circumstances e.g., folic acid during pregnancy. Folate, iodine, iron and vitamin B12 are discussed.

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