High-Calorie and High-Protein Diet: Care Instructions

Overview

A high-calorie, high-protein diet gives you more energy and extra nutrition to help your body heal. Your doctor and dietitian can help you design a diet based on your health and what you prefer to eat. Always talk with your doctor or dietitian before you make changes in your diet.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Eat three meals a day, plus snacks in between and at bedtime.
• Include favorite foods in your meals. This will help make meals more pleasant.
• Drink your beverage at the end of the meal, because drinking before or during the meal can fill you up.
• Eat high-protein foods, such as:
  • Meat, fish, and poultry.
  • Milk and milk products. Add powdered milk to other foods (such as pudding or soups) to boost the protein.
  • Eggs.
  • Cooked dried beans and peas.
  • Peanut butter, nuts, and seeds.
  • Tofu.
  • Cheeses.
  • Protein bars.
• Eat high-calorie foods, such as:
  • Butter, honey, and brown sugar, added to foods to make them taste better.
  • Oils, sauces, and gravies.
  • Peanut butter.
  • Whole milk, yogurt, mayonnaise, and sour cream.
  • Granola cereal with fruit and granola bars.
  • Muffins, pancakes, waffles, and other breads.
  • Milkshakes, puddings, and custard.
• Try a liquid meal replacement, such as Ensure, Boost, or instant breakfast drinks, if you have trouble eating solid foods. They will give you both calories and protein. Soups and smoothies also are good sources of nutrition.
• Keep snacks around that are easy to eat, such as pudding, energy bars, ice cream, and flavored ice pops.