Effect of Follow-Up Formula Containing Bifidobacteria (NAN BF) on Fecal Flora and Fecal Metabolites in Healthy Children

Abstract

Cow's milk-based follow-up formula (NAN BF) containing viable Bifidobacterium bifidum strain Bb12 was given to seven healthy children of 15 to 31 months old for 21 days, and the effect of NAN BF on fecal flora and fecal metabolic products was studied. The formula NAN BF was well-accepted by the children. During the intake of NAN BF, fecal bifidobacteria showed a tendency to increase, and lecithinase-negative clostridia decreased (p<0.05). B. bifidumstrain Bb12 was detected in fecal samples from five subjects (71%) during intake, with a maximum of 27% of total bifidobacteria. Fecal putrefactive products, ammonia and indole, were significantly reduced (p<0.01) and acetic acid increased (p<0.05) during intake. These results suggest that the intake of NAN BF is beneficial as “probiotics” in improving the intestinal flora and in maintaining the healthy intestinal condition of children during and after weaning.