Boost

Getting enough nutrients is especially important when bone health is at risk, according to HealthinAging.org, BOOST drinks and snacks provide both calories and essential nutrients. Depending on the formula, some choices can be enjoyed as a snack between meals while others are mini-meals in themselves, especially helpful when eating smaller yet more frequent meals during the day and evening rather than three large meals.

These nutritional products deliver a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates and fats, along with key vitamins and minerals. Protein is essential to maintain muscle and, along with carbohydrates, provides energy. The body needs some fat, too, for certain functions including using fat-soluble vitamins, like A and D. There are many combinations to choose from to help make up for nutritional gaps in the diet, from extra protein to overall extra calories.

BOOST Original Drink contains 10 grams of high-quality protein and 26 vitamins and minerals, including calcium, vitamin D and antioxidants, in an 8-ounce serving. Flavors are Very Vanilla, Rich Chocolate and Creamy Strawberry.

BOOST Compact provides complete nutrition in half the volume—just 4 ounces, helpful for people with a poor appetite or swallowing difficulties.

BOOST High Protein helps maintain muscle with 50% more protein than the original—15 grams, plus the CalciLock blend of essential nutrients, including calcium and Vitamin D for bone health.

BOOST Plus has 50% more calories than the original to help you gain or maintain a healthy weight, plus 14 grams of protein and the Calci-Lock nutrients.

BOOST VHC, or "very high calorie," provides 530 calories and 22 grams of protein, plus 26 vitamins and minerals. This formula can be especially helpful for people who are frail and need concentrated nutrition.

BOOST Calorie Smart supplies essential nutrients with just 190 calories and just 4 fat grams to enhance nutrition when weight gain isn't desired.

BOOST Glucose Control is designed for people with diabetes. It has a blend of protein, fat, and slow-digesting carbohydrates to help better manage blood glucose as part of a balanced diet.

BOOST Breeze has 250 calories and 9 grams of protein per serving and comes in fruity flavors.

Another way to get BOOST nutrition plus the benefits of fresh milk is with BOOST High Protein Drink Mix. When prepared with 1 cup of 2% milk, it delivers 21 essential vitamins and minerals and 14 grams of protein.

Other products in the line are BOOST Pudding with 7 grams of protein in each 5-ounce cup and BOOST Nutrition Bars with 11 grams of protein.

Most Boost products are also appropriate for people who must follow dietary restrictions because of lactose-intolerance or a gluten allergy or sensitivity or who follow a low-residue, cholesterol-restricted, or Kosher diet. Some Boost drinks are available in ergonomically designed bottles, which are easier to grip.