“Can’t we just give them a supplement?” I hear it a lot.

🍲 In aged residential care, nutrition is about more than meeting requirements - it’s about dignity, joy, and connection.

Too often, malnutrition is managed with supplements. While they can have a place, they are not the answer on their own.

Supplements don’t replace the warmth of a shared meal, the comfort of favourite foods, or the sense of belonging that comes from eating together.

When we rely on supplements, we risk medicalising mealtimes and overlooking the simple truth: food is enjoyment, culture, memory, and wellbeing. Residents deserve meals that are nourishing and enjoyable, tailored to their preferences, textures, and independence.

🌱 A food-first approach respects the whole person. It makes every bite count — nutritionally and emotionally.

Supplements may support care, but they should never replace the experience of real food. Because in aged care, every meal is an opportunity to nurture both body and soul.

As a dietitian, I focus on real food first, adapting textures, fortifying meals, and creating snacks and alternatives that residents want to eat.

Nutrition should be a pleasure, not just a prescription.

💡 What approaches have you seen make the biggest difference in supporting residents at mealtimes?#MoreThanSupplements

#FoodFirst #AgedCare #Dietitian #Malnutrition #NutritionMatters #AgedCareNutrition #QualityOfLife