Effects of the Fermented-Milk Administration on Fecal Microflora and Fecal Excretion of Demented Senile Patients Who Are Habitually Using a Purgative

Abstract

Fermented milk prepared withLactobacillus acidophilusSBT2062, Streptococcus salivariussubsp.thermophilus SBT1035 andBifidobacterium longumSBT2928 was administered at 250g/day for 20 days to ten demented senile patients with diarrhea (1 man, 9 women, average age 82.4 years) who are habitually using a purgative. By the fermented-milk feeding, stool frequency was decreased and improvement of diarrhea was observed. In addition, the number of bifidobacteria in their feces was significantly increased and fecal pH was decreased. However, fecal ammonia content was increased by the administration. Key words: fermented milk, demented senile patient, diarrhea, fecal microflora, bifidobacteria