Effects of Fructooligosaccharides Intake on the Intestinal Microflora and Defecation in Healthy Volunteers

Abstract

The effects of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) intake (1g, 3g and 5g/day) for two weeks on the intestinal microflora and defecation were studied in 27 healthy volunteers (male 21, female 6) of three groups. The number of Bifidobacterium was significantly (p<0.01 or p<0.05) increased during FOS intake period in all the dose levels. Fecal excretion was also investigated in all subjects during the study. Significant increase of stool frequency (p<0.05) and softening effect on stool (p<0.01) were observed.