Nutrition Sector
The nutrition unit at the Medikal Care Center focuses on the nutritional aspect of hospitalized patients, providing personalized nutritional counseling and treatment tailored to the patients. The unit’s dietitians work with patients at nutritional risk or those whose medical condition requires special nutritional support.
After a comprehensive nutritional assessment, the dietitian adjusts the nutritional treatment to each patient’s condition. This may include the addition of food supplements, medical nutrition products, or supplemental nutrition plans.
How should I manage my nutrition?
It is recommended to include all food groups in appropriate daily amounts, to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet.
Excluding certain food groups is usually not recommended. In fact, weight loss can impair the body’s healing processes during illness.
A varied and regular diet helps support the healing of the body.
Avoid skipping meals and eat structured meals.
If necessary, the patient may need to enrich their diet with supplements—under the guidance of the nutrition team.
If you have any doubts or questions, consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Key Guidelines for Proper Nutrition During the Recovery Process
Monitor weight and changes in nutritional status regularly.
It is recommended to continue nutritional follow-up in the community after a series of treatments.
Nutritional supplements may still be needed during this period, depending on the recovery timeline.
In cases of weight loss and/or ongoing nutritional deficiency, consult with a nutritionist and/or medical professional in the community.
In cases of appetite loss and chewing/swallowing difficulties, a high-calorie and high-protein diet may be needed, distributed over 10–12 small meals a day.
In cases of difficulty eating large quantities, it’s important to focus on foods that are rich and concentrated in energy and protein, such as fortified milk, tahini, peanut butter, nuts, and oils.
If there is difficulty chewing or swallowing, a soft, moist, or blended diet may help as well.
Maintaining Proper Nutrition for Your Specific Condition
The recommendations above refer to general nutrition. In medical cases that require specific dietary restrictions such as diabetes, kidney disease, etc., it is essential to consult with a nutritionist and continue treatment in the community to tailor the guidance accordingly.
Protein
It is recommended to include protein-rich foods in your daily menu. Protein is one of the three essential macronutrients for proper body function. It plays a key role in building tissues, muscles, and supporting the immune system.
What foods can be included?
Eggs: Egg protein is considered the highest-quality protein. It’s important to include eggs in your daily diet, depending on your dietary restrictions and medical condition.
Dairy products: Dairy puddings, cream, sour cream, yogurt, soft cheeses (labneh, cottage, ricotta), hard cheeses (yellow cheese, Bulgarian, Tzfatit). Aim for at least 2–3 servings of dairy per day.
Example breakfast: egg + cottage cheese + yellow cheese + 2 slices of bread + vegetables.Animal protein: Turkey, chicken, beef, and fish — at least one serving per day. During meals, it’s recommended to eat the protein portion first, followed by the side dish (rice, potatoes, pasta).
Legumes: Chickpeas, lentils, beans, fava beans, lupin, soybeans, peas. To enhance protein quality, combine legumes with grains in the same meal (e.g., mujaddara).
Example lunch: 2–3 turkey patties + 1 cup mujaddara + cooked vegetables + fruit.
Carbohydrates
To maintain a readily available energy source, it’s important to consume a sufficient amount of carbohydrates. People with diabetes should follow a nutritionist’s guidelines.
Examples of calorie-rich carbohydrates:
Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes (can be enriched with butter, olive oil, milk, or sour cream)
Bread — opt for bread labeled “Healthy Choice” or certified by the Israeli Health Association, which ensures a balanced carbohydrate content
Other sides: rice, noodles, bulgur, quinoa, buckwheat, couscous, pasta, etc.
Fats
You can enrich meals with these types of fats: olives, olive oil, canola oil, mayonnaise, raw tahini, avocado, sour cream, creamy ice cream, ground nuts, almond spread, peanut butter, heavy cream, or butter (not suitable for those with high cholesterol).
Dietary Fiber
Fiber is found in various foods, especially whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Fruits: Fresh fruits, baked fruits, fruit compotes, applesauce, or store-bought purees.
Vegetables: Recommended in a variety of forms — raw or cooked. These dishes can be enriched with options from the fats group.
Hydration
Staying hydrated is very important throughout the day. Unless there are medical restrictions, it’s recommended to consume an adequate amount of fluids (about 10–12 cups daily). Proper hydration helps maintain skin health, prevents constipation, and supports overall body function. Water is, of course, the preferred choice.
