Kate Farms backs plant-based formula for chronic diseases with new clinical data
31 Mar 2020 --- Kate Farms, creators of a plant-based formula drinks (for ages 1 and above) that delivers vital medical nutrition to patients with chronic diseases, has announced the publication of new clinical data that demonstrates improved gastrointestinal (GI) tolerance in a variety of populations and disease states. The four studies, originally accepted and slated to be presented as posters and oral presentations at ASPEN 2020, were released during a virtual conference.
Kate Farms’ plant-based enteral formulas are made with “easily digested” pea protein and functional ingredients to support gut health; and without common allergens and artificial ingredients typically found in conventional formulas. In a concentrated effort to further demonstrate the effectiveness of its unique plant-based formulas, Kate Farms supported studies across multiple cohorts and chronic diseases.
Kate Farms product range.“The totality of research, not just my own, indicates that plant-based formulas are effective in improving tolerance, supporting weight gain and improving patient outcomes in a variety of conditions via both oral and tube feeding. Patients report feeling better, leading to improved adherence as well,” details pediatric gastroenterologist Stanley Cohen, one of the studies’ co-authors.
Among Kate Farms’ newly published clinical research, patient-reported outcomes indicated that the brand’s plant-based enteral formula helps improve GI symptoms. A total of 392 respondents completed a survey, which exhibited that patients who switched to the brand’s formula reported improved digestive symptoms and weight maintenance.
In another trial, a 3-year-old male with a history of Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and bone marrow transplant (BMT) was transitioned to Kate Farm’s plant-based pediatric peptide enteral formula. Results included resolved symptoms of GI intolerance, weight gain and no reported interactions with immunosuppressive medications.
The company also cites the potential of its formula to support the nutrition of pediatric Crohn’s disease patients. Three subjects in clinical remission were prescribed Kate Farm’s pediatric peptide plant-based enteral nutrition. Following the study period, results included weight gain and increased body mass index (BMI) z-scores, as well as improved tolerance and adherence, compared to their results on other formulas.
“Now, more than ever, patients, caregivers and medical providers turn to data to prove products are safe and effective. This research coupled with the thousands of testimonials from our Kate Farms family continue to demonstrate the effectiveness plant-based formulas can have to give more and more people the ability to thrive,” adds Cynthia Ambres, Chief Medical Officer at Kate Farms.
Prominent medical and nutrition organizations have issued guidelines urging parents to exercise caution when feeding their children plant-based milks.Pediatric benefits and implications
In one study cited by the Kate Farms brand, the consumption of plant-based enteral formulas was found to improve GI tolerance and curb weight gain in pediatric patients. The purpose of this research was to assess the experience of pediatric patients consuming plant-based enteral formula at a single pediatric gastroenterology center.
Researchers conducted a retrospective chart review, which included the parameters of age, anthropometrics, medical history, method of administration and nutritional regimen. A phone survey was administered to each patient’s primary caregiver. This was noted as the first study to demonstrate weight gain and tolerance with a plant-based formula in children.
While majority of nutritional formulas on the market is based on cow-based proteins, the market for plant-based alternatives is gathering pace. In this dynamic space, Else Nutrition (producer of formulas for ages 1 and above) secured CA$7.5 million (US$5.8 million) in Toronto Stock Exchange ventures, which facilitates its launch this year.
Even still, prominent medical and nutrition organizations have issued guidelines urging parents to exercise caution when feeding their children plant-based milks, which are nutritionally different from regular milk-based formulas and may contain added sugars, depending on the brand.
Meanwhile, breast milk – having a broad-spectrum nutritional profile – remains a preferred choice for infants up to six months. Breastfeeding has been proven most beneficial for newborns due to their high content of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), which formulators have been seeking to integrate into their pediatric products. As consumers gain awareness of the health benefits of this naturally occurring compound, which innovators have now learned to synthesize, brands are having to face newly revised regulations regarding its marketing.
By Benjamin Ferrer
