High-Calorie Diet

A high calorie diet provides extra kilo calories above the normal prescribed level for an individual.

- An increase of 500 kcal per day above the normal kcalorie intake is given to produce a weight gain of approximately 1 lb/week.

- The increase in calorie intake must be gradual; the diet should include three meals with in-between snacks.

- Increases in daily kcal intake may be attained by giving larger portion sizes, second serving between meals and/or bedtime feedings, emphasizing foods and beverages high in calories, and use of nutritional supplements.

- All foods are allowed in the diet with higher consumption of cereals, breads, butter, cream and other fats and sugars. Bulky and low calorie foods, fried foods and those which may interfere with appetite are avoided.

- Minerals and vitamins remain at or above requirements depending upon the condition of the patient. For instance, with malnutrition, supplementation is beneficial.

- Consideration of the client's dietary pattern and food preferences is necessary especially for those who have poor appetite.

When is it used? 

 This modification is recommended for patients with debilitating conditions or diseases and any healthy individual for whom a weight gain is beneficial.

- Hypermetabolic conditions such as AIDS, COPD, burns, cancer cachexia, febrile conditions, hyperparathyroidism, fractured, and transplant or surgery

- Cystic fibrosis

- Undernutrition

How adequate is the diet?

 The diet is nutritionally satisfactory if the foods in the basic meal pattern for age are followed.

Suggested Meal Plan

 Breakfast

Fruit or fruit juice

Meat/fish (or substitute)

Rice/bread (or substitute)

Warm beverage

 Lunch/Supper

Meat/fish (or substitute)

Vegetables

Rice (or substitute)

Fruit

 Snacks (as frequently as possible)

Sandwich/pasta or noodles dish

Smoothies/liquid formula