薬理と治療

Abstract

Objective We performed this study in order to clarify whether Streptococcus thermophilus strain 9618 yogurt supplementation possess beneficial effects on Influenza infection or Cold Syndrome. Methods A randomized parallel-group trial was performed in nursing homes, located in Sapporo area. One hundred elderly subjects, who permanently reside in nursing homes, were administrated with Streptococcus thermophilus strain 9618 yogurt or placebo food for 5 months. Subjects were monitored for prevalence of Influenza and Cold Syndrome in between intake periods. As secondly endpoints, QOL and subjective symptoms in daily life were monitored by care persons and by a questionnaire. Results Prevalence of Cold Syndrome was significantly reduced in the Streptococcus thermophilus strain 9618 yogurt group, compared to placebo group（P＝0.0265）. Co-primary endpoints, prevalence of Influenza appeared not to be significantly influenced. The result of the secondly endpoints' analysis showed that symptoms related to Cold Syndrome tended to be improved by the intakes of Streptococcus thermophilus strain 9618 yogurt. Conclusions Streptococcus thermophilus strain 9618 yogurt supplementation may be an effective strategy in protection against Cold Syndrome.