Oral Nutritional Supplements
When eating is difficult, oral nutrition supplements or tube feeding can help you get enough calories and nutrients, says Heather Ritter, RDN, an intuitive eating dietitian and counselor at Health Loft, a telehealth company based in Chicago. Insurance may cover tube-feeding supplies, formula, and dietitian visits when medically necessary, though coverage for oral supplements varies, she says.
However, help is available. “Many patients qualify for more support than they realize, but they often need guidance to access it,” Ritter says. She advises starting with your care team. Oncology dietitians may have samples, suggest lower-cost options, and write letters of medical necessity to help with insurance coverage, she says. Social workers and nurse navigators can connect you with local nonprofit or faith-based resources, grants, or emergency funds.
Here are some additional resources that Ritter recommends:
Ritter suggests Orgain as a low-cost oral supplement alternative for texture-modified meals, available through bulk retailers and Meals on Wheels in some areas. Local Feeding America food banks also sometimes carry oral nutrition supplements.
The Oley Foundation connects people who need tube-feeding supplies or formula with others who have extra to share. You can browse available items online and contact donors directly to arrange shipment.
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