General Pro-Stat Usage Guidelines
Pro-Stat is a medical food, not a dietary supplement for casual use, and its administration requires medical supervision. The recommended frequency and amount are highly individualized, depending on a person's specific health status and protein requirements. A typical serving is 1 fluid ounce (30 mL), which provides a concentrated dose of protein and calories. For many patients, usage involves 1 to 3 servings per day.
The standard administration advice is to use the supplement with or between meals to ensure a continuous supply of protein throughout the day for optimal muscle protein synthesis. For oral consumption, it can be taken straight or mixed into a variety of hot or cold foods and beverages. For tube feeding, specific instructions must be followed, including proper dilution and flushing of the tube.
Special Considerations for Specific Conditions
For patients with certain medical conditions, the frequency and amount of Pro-Stat may be adjusted by a healthcare provider to meet heightened nutritional demands. For instance, elderly patients or those with severe illness may require more protein than the standard recommendation.
- Wound Care: For advanced wounds like Stage III and IV pressure ulcers, a specialized version like Pro-Stat AWC may be recommended. Usage for intensive wound healing might be three times daily for a period, as per facility protocol. A less frequent dose might be used afterward for maintenance. Pro-Stat AWC is fortified with additional nutrients like L-Arginine, Zinc, and Vitamin C to support healing.
- Malnutrition and Low Serum Proteins: For patients experiencing protein-energy malnutrition, involuntary weight loss, or low serum albumin, a healthcare professional will calculate the total daily protein needs. The Pro-Stat usage is then determined to help meet these needs in conjunction with the patient's regular diet. Often, this involves 1-3 servings per day.
- Dialysis: Patients on dialysis, particularly those on hemodialysis, have specific protein needs. A variant like Pro-Stat Renal Care is often used, providing concentrated protein for patients with fluid restrictions. A study even showed that increased oral protein supplementation, including Pro-Stat, improves protein anabolism in a dose-dependent manner during hemodialysis.
- Kidney Disease (Non-Dialysis): It's important to note that protein needs vary with the stage of kidney disease. Patients in stages 1-5 not on dialysis typically follow a lower-protein diet to slow disease progression. Protein supplements like Pro-Stat are generally not recommended for these individuals unless they are malnourished and unable to meet their needs through diet alone.
Pro-Stat vs. Other Protein Supplements
When considering protein supplements, it is helpful to compare Pro-Stat with other common products. the best choice depends on the patient's specific nutritional needs, dietary restrictions, and clinical condition. Here is a brief comparison:
| Feature | Pro-Stat | Whey Protein Isolate | Plant-Based Protein Powder | ProSource TF20 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Protein Type | Hydrolyzed Collagen | Whey | Pea, Soy, Hemp | Hydrolyzed Collagen |
| Concentration (per 1 fl oz) | 15g | Varies widely | N/A (powder) | 20g |
| Calories (per 1 fl oz) | 100 kcal | Varies widely | N/A (powder) | 80 kcal |
| Digestion | Pre-digested for rapid absorption | Rapid | Slower | Pre-digested, rapid absorption |
| Fluid Volume | Low-volume (1 fl oz) | Varies (often mixed with more fluid) | Varies (mixed with fluid) | Very low volume, EN-fit connector |
| Best For | Malnutrition, pressure ulcers, fluid restriction | Muscle building, general fitness | Vegan diets, lactose intolerance | High-protein needs in low volume, tube feeding |
| Usage | Medical food, requires medical supervision | Dietary supplement | Dietary supplement | Medical food, for tube feeding |
Additional Considerations and Conclusion
Regardless of the condition, Pro-Stat is not intended to be a sole source of nutrition and must be used as a supplement to a regular diet. It is crucial to monitor patient intake and response to the intervention, re-assessing needs periodically. Adequate hydration is also essential when taking protein supplements. Patients with diabetes should continue to monitor their blood glucose levels and discuss their supplement regimen with their doctor.
In conclusion, the frequency of Pro-Stat usage is not one-size-fits-all. It is a medical food that requires guidance from a healthcare professional to ensure safe and effective use. For most general cases, usage involving 1 to 3 servings per day is common. However, specific conditions such as advanced wound care or dialysis may necessitate a more frequent regimen, while patients with kidney disease not on dialysis may be advised to avoid it altogether. Always follow the instructions provided by your doctor or registered dietitian to determine the proper usage and frequency for your unique circumstances.
