Undertaken by Pāmu New Zealand in conjunction with Massey University, and with support from the High-Value Nutrition (HVN) Ko Nga Kai Whai Painga National Science Challenge, the trial showed that deer milk improved nutritional status, muscle mass and physical performance in women aged 65 and above.
During the trial, 120 New Zealand women over 65 with a lower to normal Body Mass Index (BMI) had to consume either 200ml of Pāmu Deer Milk or a market leading commercial oral nutritional supplement daily for 10 weeks.
People lose muscle mass and bone density as they age which can lead to increased risk of falls and fractures. It’s especially evident in women after menopause – the period in life when the bones lose calcium and other minerals.
“The study showed that Pāmu Deer Milk improved nutritional status, muscle mass and physical performance in women aged 65 and above. Further observations were that Pāmu Deer Milk may support bone health in postmenopausal women, by reducing bone breakdown and bone loss over time,” said Massey University Lead Researchers, Professors Marlena Kruger and Pamela von Hurst.
“With a rapidly ageing population and the health challenges which come with this, we are confident there will be increased demand for clinically proven, natural product solutions. This is an exciting innovation, a natural product with concentrated nutrition that we believe will make a difference to those who are wanting to restore mobility and strength as they get older,” says Hamish Glendinning, Pāmu Deer Milk Business Lead.
Clinical trial participant, Antoinette van Zyl from Orewa, Auckland, has continued to drink Pāmu Deer Milk since the trial ended. She has noticed a vast improvement in her strength and mobility which has played a major part in her recovery since a fall a few years ago.
“It has made a considerable difference to my life. Overall, I feel more vital and have more strength and energy to make the most of life. Interestingly my friends and family often comment on my glowing skin. I drink it around three times a week now, which is more than enough for my needs given its so nourishing,” said Antoinette.
Pāmu Deer Milk is sourced through a partnership with Peter and Sharon McIntyre, who run a deer farm near Gore and now through the company’s own farm, Aratiatia, in the North Island’s central plateau. It has significantly higher protein and calcium content compared with other milk products and contains vitamins and minerals that support skeletal and immune health, with additional minor components possessing anti-inflammatory effects.