GP resorts to protein shakes to help people who can’t afford to eat
A GP has described how he has resorted to prescribing protein shakes to patients who are so poor they can’t afford to buy food.
Dr Richard Ayres said he has seen a definite increase in the number of people suffering from malnutrition and has started prescribing high-calorie drinks usually given to people after surgery to help them get the nutrients they need.
The GP, who works at the Cumberland Surgery in Devonport, Plymouth - where recent research claimed one in 25 people cannot afford to feed themselves - said his move won’t solve the underlying issues behind food poverty but can go some way to helping some people.
He said: “Over the past two to three years there has been a definite increase in the number of patients suffering from malnutrition.
"I am aware of the work that local food banks do so I often refer patients to those.”
Trying to help - Dr Ayres has resorted to offering high-calorie drinks to people who can’t afford to eat (Picture: SWNS)
"It’s not that common, but I am noticing patients who come in and are underweight say it’s because they simply can’t afford to eat.
"That’s where the nutrition drinks come in, because we’ve been prescribing high-calorie supplements to people who have come out of surgery for years.”
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The 400-calories drinks, which are typically used after surgery, are packed with protein and vitamins and, while not intended for long-term use, can help people get the immediate nutrition they need.
Dr Ayres added: "It’s not going to solve the underlying problems of food poverty but it’s one of the few things I can do to help.”
(Top picture: Rex)
