Nutrition & Hydration Week 2026 takes place from 16–22 March, and across NHSGGC teams are joining together to highlight the essential role that good food and fluid intake plays in health, recovery and independence. Although the week raises awareness, the message is one our staff reinforce all year round: eating and drinking well matters every day, at every age and every stage of health.
Community Dietitian and Practice Development Dietitian, Nicole McDonald, said: “People often think nutrition and hydration only become important when someone is unwell, but they underpin daily wellbeing. Good intake supports strength, concentration, immunity and independence.
“Small changes in appetite or fluid intake can have a significant impact, especially for older adults or those with long term conditions.”
Across NHSGGC, services work throughout the year to support early recognition of poor intake and promote practical “food first” approaches for people in hospital, community services, care homes or managing their health at home.
Practice Development Dietitian Joanne Logan explained: “Spotting concerns early can prevent them becoming more serious. Sometimes it’s simple things, looser clothing, skipping meals or feeling more tired than usual, that can be the first signs someone isn’t eating or drinking enough.”
Many people, families and carers can help by watching for indicators such as unplanned weight loss, reduced appetite, low energy, dry mouth, dark urine, infrequent urination or changes in mood. Nicole added: “If you’re worried about yourself or someone else, don’t wait. Early advice can make a huge difference and there’s lots of support available.”
For anyone looking to stay well nourished and hydrated, particularly when busy, tired or recovering from illness, the team emphasises that simple habits are often the most effective.
“Regular meals and snacks, even small ones, help maintain energy,” said Joanne.
“Including foods like milk, yoghurt, cheese, eggs, beans or meat provides important protein, and having easy, nourishing snacks such as soup, cereal or yoghurt can really help if appetite is low.”
Hydration is just as important. Claire Stewart, Food, Fluid & Nutrition Practice Development Nurse, encouraged people to keep drinks close to hand and to offer a variety of options.
“Sipping fluids often, rather than waiting until you feel thirsty, is key. Drinks before meals can sometimes curb appetite, so drinking after meals can work better if someone is struggling to eat enough.”
The team also highlights the value of small “food first” techniques that boost energy and protein intake without large meals.
Claire explained: “Adding milk, cheese, butter or cream to soups or sauces can make them more nourishing. Milky drinks are a great way to support both hydration and nutrition. And if appetite is poor, having snacks between meals can make a real difference.”
Families, friends and carers also play a crucial role in supporting someone who may be struggling.
Nicole said: “Gentle check ins about eating and drinking can be really helpful. Sometimes people need practical support, help with shopping, cooking or even sharing a meal. And if you notice signs of dehydration or weight loss, encouraging someone to seek advice early is so important.”
NHSGGC provides a wide range of accessible resources, from Food First guidance and Eating to Feel Better booklets to public-facing dietetic webpages and clear referral routes into Community and Acute Dietetics. These are supported by education around MUST screening, hydration awareness and Food, Fluid & Nutrition standards.
Joanne added: “There’s fantastic support available across NHSGGC, whether online information, self-screening tools or referral pathways. Our message for Nutrition & Hydration Week is simple: small everyday actions make a big difference, and help is always at hand.”
Throughout Nutrition & Hydration Week, NHSGGC Dietitians on X, Facebook, and Instagram will share tips, resources and staff insights across its channels to help raise awareness and encourage positive habits for everyone.
