The Effect of a Shift from a Mixed to a Lacto-vegetarian Diet on some Intestinal Microflora Associated Characteristics

The effects of a switch to a lacto-vegetarian diet on several biochemical parameters was studied in twenty normal weight, non-smoking, healthy omnivores who were on no medical treatment. A dietary survey was performed and faecal and urinary samples collected before and three months after the diet shift. The shift resulted in no change in energy intake, a decrease in protein and fat intake ( p =0.04 and 0.009 respectively) and an increase in total carbohydrate and fibre intake ( p =0.0003 for both). Four biochemical intestinal microflora-associated characteristics (MACs) were followed. There was no significant difference in breakdown of mucin, conversion of cholesterol to coprostanol or inactivation of tryptic activity. The excretion of short chain fatty acids and faecal weight increased significantly ( p <0.01 and p <0.05, respectively). Keywords: Lacto-vegetation diet; Tryptic activity; Cholesterol; Mucin; Short chain fatty acids.