FAQ
What is disease-related malnutrition
Disease-related malnutrition is the type of malnutrition that is triggered by illness or disease.
What are the causes of disease-related malnutrition?
Disease-related malnutrition can develop for many reasons including the side effects of medications and treatments, which can cause nausea or demand dietary restrictions, and psychological conditions like depression that diminish interest in eating. Physical impediments such as pain from injuries affecting the ability to chew or swallow, and practical challenges faced by individuals with conditions like cachexia or Parkinson’s disease, which make food preparation and consumption difficult, further contribute to reduced intake. Additionally, gastrointestinal issues can impair digestion and nutrient absorption, leading to malnutrition. Diseases such as Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis might exacerbate these problems by causing rapid nutrient expulsion through symptoms like diarrhoea. After events like surgery or trauma, the body's need for nutrients to repair damaged tissues is increased, making it a challenge to meet nutritional needs. Thus, disease-related malnutrition is a complex issue stemming from a combination of increased nutritional requirements, decreased food intake due to physical, psychological, and practical obstacles, and increased nutrient losses, all of which severely impact a patient’s recovery process.
What are the consequences of disease-related malnutrition?
Inadequate nutrition compromises the body's protein stores, leading to muscle loss, physical weakness, and increased risk of falls and infections. Malnourished patients face longer illnesses, recovery periods, and hospital stays due to reduced resilience and slower wound healing. Moreover, the psychological impact includes fatigue, apathy, and depression, exacerbating the overall health decline.
(Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, 2012)
Why is it important to be well-nourished?
Shortly, to avoid all the above. Malnutrition has numerous negative consequences, resulting in a lower quality of life for patients.
Getting the right amount of nutrients is crucial for preventing weight loss and muscle wasting which helps keep up strength, overcome weakness and tiredness. It also helps keep the immune system healthy to avoid complications, infections, and to recover quicker.
How can MediDrink help?
MediDrink is an FSMP (Food for Special Medical Purposes) for the dietary management of disease-related malnutrition.
Who is MediDrink suitable and not suitable for?
MediDrink can be consumed by adults and children above 3 years of age. It is not suitable for children under 3 years and patients with galactosemia or hereditary fructose intolerance (fructosemia). Use with caution in children aged 3-6 years.
What MediDrink products are currently available on the Australian market?
- MediDrink Plus: for the dietary management of disease-related malnutrition.
- MediDrink Platinum: for the dietary management of disease-related malnutrition in the elderly.
- MediDrink Neo: for the dietary management of cancer-related malnutrition.
- MediDrink Gastro: for the dietary management of inflammatory bowel diseases.
- MediDrink Pulmo: for the dietary management of malnutrition in patients with compromised respiratory function.
- MediDrink OpLoad: for the preoperative dietary management of surgery patients.
You can also special order these products:
- MediDrink RC: for the dietary management of malnutrition in patients with impaired glucose metabolism.
- MediDrink Standard: for the dietary management of disease-related malnutrition.
- MediDrink PeriOp: for the perioperative dietary management of surgery patients.
Do I need a referral or registration from my Healthcare Practitioner to purchase MediDrink?
Yes, you need a referral or registration by your healthcare practitioner on our online website to purchase MediDrink. It is recommended that you speak to a healthcare professional about the decision to use MediDrink.
How many MediDrink packs should I consume per day?
Each MediDrink product has different recommended daily allowances. Please look at the dosage information for each product, alternatively, your healthcare practitioner may advise a tailored dosage based on your health needs.
When is the best time to take MediDrink?
MediDrink can be taken any time of day, or as advised by your Healthcare Practitioner.
What is the best way to consume MediDrink?
MediDrink products are best served chilled. Drink slowly in small volumes and shake well before use.
How should MediDrink be stored?
MediDrink products should be stored between 2°C and 28 °C. Once opened, store in the refrigerator and discard unused content after 24 hours.
Does MediDrink contain lactose and gluten?
MediDrink Plus, Platinum, Neo, Gastro and Pulmo are classified as a low lactose and low gluten product. Per 200ml serve, our products contain <40mg of gluten and <0.2g of lactose, and per 330ml serve, our products contain <66mg of gluten and <0.33g of lactose. Our MediDrink OpLoad is lactose and gluten free.
Does MediDrink have a vegetarian or vegan option?
Currently, MediDrink Plus, Platinum, Neo, Gastro and Pulmo does not have a vegetarian or vegan option available. MediDrink OpLoad does not contain animal products, and therefore is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Is MediDrink Halal and Kosher certified?
Yes, MediDrink is Halal and Kosher certified.
Is MediDrink safe to use in pregnancy?
The decision to use MediDrink during pregnancy is best consulted with your Healthcare Practitioner.
Can patients with diabetes consume MediDrink?
MediDrink Plus, Platinum, Neo, Gastro and Pulmo are classified as suitable for patients with diabetes due to its low carbohydrate content. OpLoad is not suitable for patients with insulin resistance or diabetes mellitus.
I am not sure how to make a purchase online, is there another way I can make a purchase?
Yes, you can contact our customer care line by phone or email to place an order.
Phone: 1800 787 735
Email: customercare@medidrink.com.au
How can I report a problem with the product or adverse reactions?
If you are having problems with your Medidrink product or experience an adverse reaction, please contact our customer care line by phone or email.
Phone: 1800 787 735