ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to understand the principles of maintaining a balanced diet. Nutrition is a priority in an individual's treatment and provides the foundation for all other care. The only exception to this is the end stages of a life-threatening illness when it becomes more important to give hydration and feeding for pleasure rather than survival. Nutritional support should be considered for anybody unable to maintain their nutritional status by their usual diet. There are many factors which may influence food intake and need to be considered when planning nutritional support. The effects of a poor diet include muscle weakness, fatigue, skin problems, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, anaemia, infections, heart failure, hypoglycaemia and a reduced ability to withstand infection, physical injury and emotional stress. Timing and frequency of food and drink: Patients may be unable to eat their usual portions. Ben may prefer to 'graze' all day with snacks 'little and often' rather than main meals.
