EFFECT OF 4(G)-BETA-D-GALACTOSYLSUCROSE (LACTOSUCROSE) ON FECAL MICROFLORA IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC INFLAMMATORY BOWEL-DISEASE

Metabolic interaction between the intestinal microflora and the host h as been suggested to play a role in the pathogenesis of chronic inflam matory bowel disease. Elemental or low-fat, low-residual diets in pati ents with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis are reported to decrea se anaerobic bacteria and to change the composition of the intestinal microflora. We examined the effect of an indigestible agent, 4(G)-beta -D-galactosylsucrose (lactosucrose), which is selectively utilized by intestinal Bifidobacterium, on the composition of the intestinal micro flora. After the administration of lactosucrose to two patients with C rohn's disease and five patients with ulcerative colitis for 2 weeks, significant induction of the growth of Bifidobacterium was observed, a nd significant reduction in the population level of Bacteroidaceae was seen. Bowel movements improved in four patients. The intestinal envir onment, estimated by measuring fecal pH, fecal levels of short-chain f atty acids and putrid products, and the urinary secretion of indican, also improved in these patients. These results suggest that lactosucro se may be useful for patients with chronic inflammatory bowel disease.