What Exactly is the Compleat Nutrition Formula?
Compleat is a brand of nutritionally complete formulas from Nestlé Health Science. These formulas are designed for individuals who cannot meet their nutritional requirements through diet alone and can be used for oral consumption or tube feeding. A key characteristic of Compleat is the inclusion of "real food ingredients" alongside other nutritional components, offering an alternative to more conventional enteral formulas. Compleat is classified as a medical food and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Key Ingredients and Nutritional Profile
The ingredients in Compleat formulas often include whole food components mixed with traditional nutritional supplements. Specific formulations vary.
The Real Food Component
Ingredients derived from real food in various Compleat formulas include:
- Vegetables: Such as tomatoes, green beans, carrots, peas, kale, and sweet potatoes.
- Fruits: Including peaches, pears, blueberries, and cranberry juice concentrate.
- Protein: Sources like dehydrated chicken meat, milk protein concentrate, and pea protein isolate.
Added Nutritional Elements
Compleat formulas are fortified to ensure they are nutritionally complete:
- Fats: Provide energy from sources like canola oil and MCTs.
- Carbohydrates: Such as brown rice syrup, for energy.
- Fiber: A blend of soluble and insoluble fiber supports digestive health.
- Vitamins and Minerals: A range of vitamins and minerals meets daily requirements.
Who is Compleat Intended For?
Compleat formulas are used for individuals requiring specialized nutritional support. This includes:
- Patients experiencing malnutrition.
- Individuals requiring long-term tube feeding who prefer real food ingredients.
- Those with feeding intolerance to standard formulas.
- Children with developmental disabilities affecting oral feeding.
- People needing oral nutritional supplementation.
Different Compleat Formulas for Specific Needs
Nestlé Health Science offers several Compleat products:
- Compleat Original: Adult and pediatric versions with ingredients including chicken.
- Compleat Plant-Based: A vegan option with pea and rice protein.
- Compleat Organic Blends: Made with organic fruits, vegetables, and plant proteins, free of dairy, soy, or corn.
Benefits of Using Compleat Formulas
Compleat products are associated with several benefits:
- Improved Gastrointestinal Tolerance: Studies indicate potential reductions in constipation, vomiting, and overall GI symptoms, possibly due to real food and fiber content.
- Enhanced Patient Quality of Life: Real food ingredients can improve patient and caregiver satisfaction.
- Nutritionally Balanced: Formulas are balanced to help achieve nutritional goals, including weight gain.
Compleat vs. Traditional Tube Feeding Formulas
| Feature | Compleat (Real Food Based) | Traditional Formula (Synthetic) |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Includes real food components like fruits, vegetables, and chicken or pea protein. | Primarily uses isolated, synthetic components. |
| Gastrointestinal Tolerance | Studies report improved GI outcomes and reduced digestive issues. | May cause intolerance or digestive issues in some individuals. |
| Protein Source | Derived from multiple sources such as chicken, milk, and peas. | Usually utilizes a standard protein isolate like casein or soy. |
| Fiber Content | Contains a blend of soluble and insoluble fiber. | Fiber content varies; some have added fiber, others do not. |
| Nutrient Density | Available in different calorie densities, such as 1.06 Cal/mL or 1.5 Cal/mL. | Available in various caloric densities, including 1.0, 1.2, or 1.5 Cal/mL. |
| Flavor | Offers unflavored and flavored options like fruit medley or vanilla for oral use. | Often unflavored or uses standard synthetic flavorings. |
| Allergen Info | Variants are available that are plant-based, organic, and free from common allergens. | Must check specific formula labels for potential allergens like milk or soy. |
Administration and Medical Supervision
Compleat can be taken orally or administered via a feeding tube. As a medical food, its use requires guidance from a healthcare provider who will determine the appropriate formula, dosage, caloric density, and feeding schedule to meet individual needs.
Conclusion
What is the nutrition formula compleat? It is a specialized, nutritionally complete medical food from Nestlé Health Science, notable for incorporating real food ingredients. Suitable for oral or enteral use, it provides a well-tolerated option for individuals requiring dietary support under medical supervision. The availability of different formulations and reported benefits for gastrointestinal health and patient satisfaction make Compleat a significant option in clinical nutrition.
For more details on Compleat products, you can visit the manufacturer's website(https://www.nestlehealthscience.com/brands/compleat).
