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Meal supplements provide calories and
protein but may lack other essential nutrients. As such, they cannot be
used as the only source to obtain nutrients. On the other hand, meal
replacements contain all the essential nutrients needed by the body.
Thus, a meal replacement can replace a well-balanced meal because it
provides all the necessary nutrients.
However, nutritional support products should
not replace food intake for people who can eat. Instead, these products
should be given to fulfill nutrient requirements when food sources are
inadequate due to special dietary needs or restrictions.
People with special dietary needs or
restrictions are at risk of developing malnutrition. Nonetheless, they
can still stay strong by eating a well-balanced diet. In case food
intake cannot meet all their nutrient requirements, nutritional support
is recommended. However, this should be done with the guidance of health
practitioners who recognize the value of nutritional support for people
at risk of developing malnutrition.
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