Malnutrition is common in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), especially those starting dialysis. A recent study found oral nutritional supplements (ONS) may provide nutritional benefits when patients are not getting the nutrients from the foods they eat. 
 
Patients don't always follow the supplement recommendations given by their health care team, so administering ONS to patients during dialysis sessions is a new approach many nurses and dietitians are using. Research has shown the use of ONS during dialysis may be associated with improvements in nutrition-related issues, including serum albumin and body weight, especially in patients with other illnesses or non-nutritional factors such as liver disease, recent surgery or cancer.
 
It is important to speak with your physician or dietitian before taking any type of nutritional supplement.

This article originally appeared in the February 2009 issue of AAKP Diet Tips & Bits.