Effect of Proanthocyanidin-Rich Extract from Grape Seeds on Human Fecal Flora and Fecal Odor

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of proanthocyanidin-rich extracts from grape seeds on human fecal flora and fecal odor. Proanthocyanidin-rich extract containing 38.5% proanthocyanidin was administered to nine healthy adults at a dose of 0.5 g/day (0.19 g/day as proanthocyanidin) for 2 weeks, and proanthocyanidin-rich extract containing 89.3% proanthocyanidin was administered to eight elderly inpatients at a dose of 0.43 g/day (0.38 g/day as proanthocyanidin) for 2 weeks. Green tea extract and/or champignon extract, both of which have been found to have a deodorant effect on fecal odor, were administered in a similar manner as controls. In healthy adults, marked decreases in fecal odor and concentrations of methyl mercaptan and hydrogen sulfide in feces were observed during proanthocyanidin-rich extract intake, but the effects of green tea extract and champignon extract were weak. After 2 weeks of proanthocyanidin-rich extract intake, the number of Bifidobacterium had increased significantly (p