薬理と治療

Abstract

Objective　This study was performed to examine the effects of foods containing apple pectin on defecation frequency and the skin environment in healthy adults. Methods　This randomized, double–blind, placebo–controlled, parallel–group study involved 38 healthy men and women in their 20s. The participants were randomly assigned to either a placebo group or a pectin group. The study consisted of a 2–week pre–test period followed by a 4–week test diet intake period. The participants recorded their daily bowel movements, and stool samples and skin conditions were assessed before and after the test diet period. Results　After 4 weeks of continuous study diet intake, the pectin group showed a significant increase in the frequency of defecation and improved satisfaction with bowel movements based on the defecation status records. Additionally, the skin condition measurements showed a significant improvement in the stratum corneum moisture score. No adverse events related to the study diet were reported. Conclusions　These results suggest that consuming pectin–containing foods over time can increase the frequency of defecation, improve satisfaction with bowel movements, and enhance skin moisture levels.(UMIN–ID: UMIN000051306)(Jpn Pharmacol Ther 2024;52:1355‒64)