Abstract
To elucidate the effect of fermented milk containing Lactobacillus johnsonii La1 on the intestinal microflora and fecal characteristics, a double-blind placebo control cross-over trial was conducted. Twenty-four healthy Japanese young women were randomly divided into two groups, and either of fermented milk containing L. johnsonii La1 (1×109 cfu/120 g, test fermented milk) or placebo fermented milk without L. johnsonii La1 was administered daily for 21 days at the test period and placebo period, respectively. Compared to non-intake period, the number of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli were significantly increased and the number of lecithinase positive Clostridium was significantly decreased in the feces during the test period. Fecal pH was significantly decreased and concentration of short chain fatty acids showed tendency to increase. L. johnsonii La1 was identified by colony PCR technique in all subjects after the administration of the test fermented milk during the test period, neither non-intake period nor placebo period. Defecation frequency in the subjects with mild constipation significantly increased during the test period. These results suggest that fermented milk containing L. johnsonii La1 has an efficacy to improve the intestinal microflora and fecal characteristics by reaching the viable strain.
