The Medical Journal of Basrah University

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Two local isolates of Lactobacillus acidophilus (L-53) and Bifidobacterium (B3) was obtained from
neonatal stool cultured on MRS media. These isolates was used in preparation of probiotic fermented
milk products (ABT and ABY).The effect of the prepared probiotic products on rabbit serum lipid
profile was studied through two experimental designs (Therapeutic: A, Prophylactic: B). Consumption of
ABT and ABY products showed clear reduction in the levels of total cholesterol (TC) and low density
lipid (LDL) by 4 weeks of utilization which was more reduced by 8 weeks of consumption (P<0.01)
referring to the importance of consumption duration in reducing these levels compared to the control
groups. Proportional mixing of probiotic bacteria with ordinary yogurt bacteria enhances their effect of
the levels of TC and LDL. In contrast, the levels of high density lipid (HDL) and triglycerides (TG)
showed no significant differences (P>0.05). However, the consumption of these products reduces the ratio
of LDL: HDL which has a significant value in reducing the risk of acquiring atheroschlerosis. The regular
consumption of probiotic products (Exp.B) showed clear prophylactic effect in maintaining lower levels
of TC and LDL compared to the control group despite the utilization of cholestrol enriched diet.