Do you have some quick tips I can tell patients about ways they can improve their caloric and protein intake?

Healthy people get enough calories and protein by eating 3 nutritious meals and snacks each day. However, when patients are not feeling well, it may be difficult to eat properly, and as a consequence, their nutritional status and wound healing suffer. Here are some tips to pass on to patients in this situation.

* Eat frequently. If you cannot eat a large meal, make sure to eat smaller meals more often.

* When you cook, prepare and freeze extra portions so you always have meals on hand.

* Drink your calories. Instead of diet soda, water, coffee, or tea, drink fruit juice, milkshakes, or milk.

* Don't eat plain food-add "extras" such as salad dressing, mayonnaise, nuts, croutons, and other toppings.

* Eat dried fruits and nuts. Raisins, apricots, dates, and nuts are all high calorie and easy to pack, so you can always have some with you.

* Prepare casseroles, mashed potatoes, soups, and hot cereals with nonfat dry milk powder.

* Keep hard-boiled eggs on hand. Eggs provide high-quality protein and are easy to prepare.

* While watching television, take a few bites during each commercial break.