A Plant-Based Whole-Foods Meal Delivery Service for Patients With Multiple Myeloma Undergoing Autologous Hematopoietic Cell Transplant

Implementing a Plant-Based Whole-Foods Meal Delivery Service for Patients Undergoing Autologous Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Multiple Myeloma: A Pilot Study

This clinical trial evaluates the impact of a plant-based whole-foods delivery service on the microbiome in patients with multiple myeloma undergoing an autologous hematopoietic cell transplant. An autologous hematopoietic cell transplant is a procedure in which blood-forming stem cells (cells from which all blood cells develop) are removed, stored, and later given back to the same person. Loss of microbial diversity within the intestinal tract has been associated with poor outcomes for patients receiving autologous stem cell transplantation. A plant-based whole meal delivery service may increase the intake of foods high in fiber and nutrients therefore improve microbial health during the peri-transplant period. In this pilot study, study investigators will explore the feasibility of this approach.

OUTLINE:

Patients receive 3 meals per day and snacks delivered twice weekly and meet with dietitian once weekly on days -7 to 28. Patients undergo blood and stool sample collection on study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Able to provide written informed consent prior to initiation of any study procedures
• Planned first autologous stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma
• Planned outpatient treatment for the duration of transplantation (if admitted, the investigators will request that caregivers bring the meals/snacks to the hospital as they might with other food prepared at home)
• Access to a refrigerator
• Ability to reheat foods
• Able to consume an oral diet at enrollment
• Able to communicate clearly regarding aspects of the study: e.g. Give feedback on logistics and meals, in order to maximize the operational data the investigators can gather in this pilot study
• At least 18 years of age

Exclusion Criteria:

• Major psychiatric diagnosis that impairs cognitive functioning or is not controlled at the time of the approach, as judged by the patient's medical team
• Planned inpatient transplantation