Embargoed for Release Until: Sunday, October 17, 1999, 6:00 p.m.
Contact: Jeffrey Macdonald (202) 973-2903
[email protected]
Jennifer Armstrong (202) 973-2930
[email protected]
New Study Finds Yogurt May Help Prevent
Antibiotic Associated Diarrhea
Phoenix, AZ, October 18, 1999 -- A new study has revealed that yogurt may help reduce or prevent antibiotic associated diarrhea (AAD), the most common side effect associated with antibiotic treatment. This research was released today at the 64th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG).
Up to 29 percent of patients experience AAD during antibiotic treatment. Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Medical CenteróMcKeesport Hospital found that patients who received a dietary supplement of yogurt reported significantly less incidence of diarrhea (9% vs. 19%), fewer total number of diarrheal days (18 vs. 46) and less bloating (5% vs. 9%) than patients who did not receive the supplement.
The open study examined 202 patients receiving antibiotic treatment. Half of these patients were selected at random to receive a dietary supplement that consisted of 16 ounces of commercial vanilla-flavored yogurt. Patients with lactose intolerance and those using a feeding tube or allergic to components of yogurt were excluded from the study. Patients were monitored for seven days and evaluated for diarrhea, bloating and frequent bowel movements.
Researchers believe that dietary supplementation is a safe, simple and cost-effective way to decrease the incidence and duration of AAD.
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The ACG was formed in 1932 to advance the scientific study and medical treatment of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. The College promotes the highest standards in medical education and is guided by its commitment to meeting the needs of clinical gastroenterology practitioners.
Consumers can get more information on GI diseases through the following ACG-sponsored programs:
* 1-800-978-7666 (free brochures on common GI disorders, including ulcers, colon cancer, gallstones and liver disease)
* 1-800-HRT-BURN (free brochure and video on heartburn and GERD)
* www.acg.gi.org (ACG's Web site)
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