What is Compleat 1.5?
Nestle Compleat 1.5 is a nutritionally complete medical food developed by Nestlé Health Science for individuals aged 14 and older. It is a plant-based formula distinguished by its use of real food ingredients, which include a variety of fruits and vegetables. Providing 1.5 calories per milliliter, it is a calorically dense option for patients who require extra energy in a restricted volume. This concentration is especially beneficial for those with fluid restrictions, volume intolerance, or shortened feeding schedules.
Key Ingredients and Formulation
One of the defining features of Compleat 1.5 is its composition of recognizable, real food components. The specific ingredients can vary between the original and peptide-based versions, but common additions include:
- Fruits and Vegetables: Examples are tomato paste, peach puree concentrate, dried green beans, cranberry juice concentrate, and dried carrots. Some variants also contain apples and butternut squash.
- Protein Source: The formula's protein is derived from a plant-based source, specifically hydrolyzed pea protein and L-cystine, making it suitable for vegan diets.
- Fats and Carbohydrates: Brown rice syrup acts as a carbohydrate source, while fat comes from a blend of oils, including medium chain triglycerides (MCT) from coconut and/or palm kernel oil, canola oil, and safflower or sunflower oil.
- Dietary Fiber: To support digestive health, Compleat 1.5 includes a blend of soluble and insoluble fiber derived from vegetable sources and partially hydrolyzed guar gum.
Applications and Patient Profiles
Nestle Compleat 1.5 is intended for the dietary management of a range of conditions under medical supervision. Healthcare professionals may recommend this formula for:
- Patients requiring tube feeding: It is used for both short-term and long-term enteral nutrition regimens.
- Individuals with fluid restrictions or volume intolerance: The formula's high caloric density allows for a significant energy intake in a smaller volume.
- Patients with multiple food allergies: Being free of common allergens like dairy, soy, nuts, and corn, it is a safe option for many with sensitivities.
- Those preferring a real food option: For patients who or caregivers who favor commercially available formulas with real food ingredients, Compleat 1.5 is a suitable alternative to homemade blenderized feedings.
Benefits of Compleat 1.5
Choosing Compleat 1.5 can offer several advantages for patients with specific nutritional needs:
- Improved Tolerance: The inclusion of hydrolyzed pea protein and a balanced fiber blend is designed to support feeding tolerance and improve digestive health. Studies have shown reductions in gastrointestinal intolerance symptoms in some patient populations switching to a peptide- and plant-based formula.
- Allergen-Free and Vegan: The plant-based formulation eliminates major food allergens and is suitable for individuals following a vegan or vegetarian diet.
- Convenience: As a ready-to-feed formula, it provides a convenient and consistent alternative to preparing homemade blenderized diets.
- Complete Nutrition: It is nutritionally complete, ensuring that all macro- and micronutrient needs are met when used as directed.
Comparison: Compleat 1.5 vs. Other Formulas
While many nutritional formulas are available, Compleat 1.5's plant-based, real-food composition sets it apart from traditional milk-protein or soy-based options. Here is a comparison of key features:
| Feature | Nestle Compleat 1.5 | Standard Medical Formula (e.g., Isosource®) | Peptide-Based Formula (non-Compleat) | Milk-Based Formula (e.g., Boost®) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caloric Density | 1.5 kcal/mL | Varies, often 1.0 to 1.5 kcal/mL | Varies, often 1.5 kcal/mL | Varies, often 1.0 to 1.5 kcal/mL |
| Protein Source | Hydrolyzed pea protein, L-cystine | Mixed protein, often milk protein or soy | Peptides or free amino acids | Milk protein |
| Real Food Ingredients | Yes (fruits, vegetables) | No | No (typically synthetic) | No |
| Suitability for Allergies | Excellent (free of common allergens like dairy, soy, nuts) | Depends on formulation, may contain milk or soy | Excellent (free of common allergens) | Poor (contains milk) |
| Use Case | High caloric needs, fluid restriction, food allergy management | General nutritional support for normal digestion | Impaired digestion, malabsorption issues | General nutrition, oral supplement |
Potential Considerations
Although Compleat 1.5 offers significant benefits, there are considerations for its use. The high osmolality of some versions, such as the Peptide 1.5, should be monitored by healthcare providers, especially in sensitive patients. As with any medical food, its use should be under the supervision of a healthcare professional who can assess the patient's specific nutritional needs and potential interactions. It's also important to note that while it contains real food ingredients, it remains a processed, shelf-stable product formulated for nutritional consistency, not a replacement for a balanced, fresh diet for those who can tolerate solid foods.
Conclusion
In summary, what is Nestle Compleat 1.5 formula? It is a high-calorie, plant-based nutritional formula made with real food ingredients, designed for adults requiring supplemental or sole-source nutrition. It is particularly valuable for individuals with fluid restrictions, high energy needs, or multiple food allergies who can benefit from its specialized formulation. Its use for oral or tube feeding makes it a versatile tool in dietary management, providing a convenient and well-tolerated option for those with complex health conditions.
Important
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before using any medical food product.
What are the different types of Compleat 1.5 formulas?
Nestle offers different versions of Compleat 1.5, including an adult plant-based formula and a specialized Peptide 1.5 formula that uses hydrolyzed pea protein for easier digestion and absorption.
How does the plant-based protein in Compleat 1.5 compare to whey or soy protein?
Unlike whey (milk-based) or soy, the hydrolyzed pea protein in Compleat 1.5 is hypoallergenic, meaning it's less likely to cause an allergic reaction. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals with common food allergies.
Can Nestle Compleat 1.5 be consumed orally as a nutritional supplement?
Yes, while it is commonly used for tube feeding, many Compleat 1.5 formulas are also flavored for oral consumption, serving as a supplement for individuals who can drink it.
How many calories are in Nestle Compleat 1.5 formula?
The name indicates its caloric density: 1.5 calories per milliliter. This concentrated form provides a significant amount of energy in a smaller volume compared to standard 1.0 kcal/mL formulas.
What kind of real food ingredients are in Compleat 1.5?
The formula incorporates fruit and vegetable ingredients like tomato paste, peach puree, carrots, and green beans, providing a wholesome profile that many patients appreciate.
Is Nestle Compleat 1.5 suitable for vegans?
Yes, the adult version of Compleat 1.5 is a completely plant-based formula, making it suitable for individuals adhering to a vegan diet.
Who is the target audience for Nestle Compleat 1.5?
This formula is intended for individuals aged 14 and older who have specific dietary needs such as malnutrition, fluid restrictions, or high-caloric requirements.
