Ask the expert: Nourishing puréed meals for extra calories and protein

Question:

Can you please make suggestions for high-calorie recipes, preferably puréed food, to assist with weight gain? My wife lost nearly 15kg over nine months while doctors endeavoured to diagnose her health issues (difficulty swallowing). Now she needs to gain at least 9kg in order to survive chemotherapy. Suitable high-calorie and protein recipes appreciated, especially puréed options. -Martin Brill, NZ

Answer:

Hi Martin, I’m so sorry to hear what you and your wife are going through. Losing a significant amount of weight over a short period, especially while navigating complex health issues, can be incredibly stressful. At Healthy Food Guide we can’t give personalised health advice, but we can provide some general tips.

Because your wife has difficulty swallowing, it’s really important to work closely with a speech pathologist. They can assess her swallowing abilities and guide you on the safest food textures and
consistencies, which is crucial for her safety and comfort.

When it comes to nutrition, the goal is to fortify foods without increasing volume too much. Some strategies include:

• Adding olive oil, butter or cream to mashed vegetables, soups or porridge. Even a teaspoon adds calories without increasing bulk.
• Blending milk, cream, full-fat yoghurt or nut butters into purées or smoothies to boost calories and protein.
• Incorporating oral nutrition supplements or protein-fortified milks into her diet to provide extra calories and protein in a small, easy-to-consume serving.

Other tips: Offer 5–6 smaller meals or snacks throughout the day to make it easier for her to meet energy targets without overwhelming her.

With careful planning and the support of her healthcare team, it’s absolutely possible to create a puréed diet that is both safe and nourishing. Please consult a dietitian for a more personalised approach. Sending you both strength and encouragement through this journey.