Transitioning to a Pea Protein Plant-Based Enteral Formula (PPPBF) Supports Gastrointestinal and Metabolic Health in Tube-Fed Medically Complex Adults
Authors: N. Withrow1, J. Franck2, C. Anderson2
Research Presented as a Poster at the 2025 Annual Congress for The European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN)
Population and Design
Retrospective medical chart review of 20 adults (21-58 years) with complex medical conditions—in a residential care home—that had their tube feeding formulas switched from conventional to organic pea protein-based formulas for 3 months.
Primary medical diagnosis was cerebral palsy in 75% of study participants.
Outcomes Measured
Frequency and types of bowel movements (Bristol Stool Scale), weight changes, medication use, and laboratory results.
Results
After switching to organic pea protein-based formulas, participants’ mean daily fiber intake increased from 4.7 g to 16.1 g.
Study participants experienced significantly fewer severe diarrheal episodes (p=0.025).
Seventy percent (70%) of participants also experienced a significant decrease in Hemoglobin A1c levels (p=0.001).
Weight, medication usage, and other laboratory values remained stable throughout the study.
Read Full-Text Abstract from ESPEN 2025 Congress
Affiliations:
1. Kate Farms, Goleta, CA, United States
2. Nutrition, The Center for Discovery, Harris, NY, United States
Citation:
Withrow N et al, Clin Nutr ESPEN, vol 69, p1154-1155, October 2025
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