A clinical trial, led by Pāmu New Zealand and Massey University, had 120 women, who were all older than 65 and with a lower-to-normal body mass index (BMI) drink either 200ml of Pāmu deer milk or a market leading commercial oral nutritional supplement for 10 weeks.
Pāmu deer milk was 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.
Massey University lead researchers Profs Marlena Kruger and Pamela von Hurst said 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 might support bone health in postmenopausal women, by reducing bone breakdown and bone loss over time.
Research had shown people lost muscle mass and bone density as they aged, which could lead to increased risk of falls and fractures, especially for women after menopause when the bones lose calcium and other minerals.
Pāmu deer milk had significantly higher protein and calcium content compared with other milk products and contained vitamins and minerals which supported skeletal and immune health, and additional minor components possessed anti-inflammatory effects, they said.
She had noticed a vast improvement in her strength and mobility, which had 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."
Pāmu deer milk business lead Hamish Glendinning said he saw enormous potential for the product to carve out a defendable position in the aged nutrition space, the natural and unique product offering the chance of increased returns for deer farming in New Zealand.
“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."
The trial was supported by the High-Value Nutrition Ko Ngā Kai Whai Painga national science challenge.
