An estimated 145,000 people in Ireland are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition, which can have a major detrimental effect on their health, the HSE has warned.

Malnutrition refers to under-nutrition that affects a person's health and wellbeing. Rapid, unplanned weight loss can have a major impact on health and is one of the most distressing symptoms patients can experience. However, eating and maintaining a healthy weight can be difficult for people experiencing conditions such as cancer, Crohn's disease or advanced dementia.

Malnutrition can also affect older people living alone, and those who are undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation.

In an effort to tackle this serious health issue, the HSE and University College Cork (UCC) have published a new cookbook aimed at providing high-calorie, high-protein recipes for those affected.

The book, Making the Most of Every Bite, has been created by registered dietitians (RDs) and chefs, and it contains easy-to-prepare and nourishing recipes that are enriched with extra energy and protein to help slow down or prevent weight loss that is associated with illness.

"It is important to make sure that the food you eat is as nourishing as possible when your appetite is poor or when you are finding it difficult to maintain your weight when ill.

"These recipes are easy to make, nutritious and give people new ideas at a time when lack of appetite can bring additional distress. The comfort and normality of eating at times of illness is something that cannot be underestimated," commented one of the book's authors, Dr Aoife Ryan, a lecturer in nutritional sciences at UCC.

According to RD and nutrition project lead with HSE Primary Care, Dr Sharon Kennelly, malnutrition is a serious healthcare issue in Ireland today.

"A food-based approach should always be part of the first steps in managing malnutrition and we are delighted to partner with dietetic colleagues in UCC to make this cookbook available to people who can benefit from it," she commented.

She pointed out that the book has been piloted with a small number of patients and family members who are supporting loved ones, and so far, the feedback has been ‘very positive'.

The book was welcomed by the Minister for Health, Simon Harris, who acknowledged that illness-related malnutrition is ‘a significant problem for a number of Irish people and can have considerable economic costs'.

"This new cookbook will help support better outcomes by helping carers and individuals themselves to choose food that is both nourishing and enjoyable," he commented.

The book also contains information on problems that may affect eating, such as nausea, vomiting, indigestion, reflux, diarrhoea and constipation. Recipes for soups, smoothies and soft foods, which are ideal for people who have difficulties chewing or have sore mouths, are also included.

Portion sizes are aimed at people who feel full quickly or are put off by the sight of a full plate of food. Furthermore, all recipes use typical household ingredients and can be made in bulk and frozen for use later.

The HSE is reminding people that it is important to discuss this cookbook with your nurse, doctor or dietitian to check whether it is appropriate for you. Your HSE healthcare professional can order a copy for you, if appropriate, free of charge. It can also be viewed here