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Updated: Mar 19, 2026

An In Vitro Batch-culture Model to Estimate the Effects of Interventional Regimens on Human Fecal Microbiota

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In Vivo Effects of Tea Polyphenol Intake on Human Intestinal Microflora and Metabolism.

T Okubo¹, N Ishihara¹, A Oura¹

¹a Central Research Laboratories, Taiyo Kagaku Co., Ltd. , Yokkaichi Mie 510 , Japan.

Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry

|June 10, 2016

Summary

Tea polyphenols significantly reduced harmful Clostridium perfringens in the gut while boosting beneficial Bifidobacterium spp. These changes, observed in healthy volunteers, normalized gut microflora and acidity.

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Area of Science:

Microbiology
Human Nutrition
Gastroenterology

Background:

Gut microbiota plays a crucial role in human health.
Dietary components can modulate the gut microbial composition and function.
Tea polyphenols are known for their antioxidant and potential health benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the effects of tea polyphenol intake on human fecal microflora, bacterial metabolites, and pH.
To assess the impact on specific bacterial groups like Clostridium and Bifidobacterium.
To determine changes in fecal pH and volatile fatty acids.

Main Methods:

Eight healthy human volunteers participated in the study.
Participants consumed tea polyphenols (0.4 g, 3 times/day) for four weeks.
Fecal samples were analyzed for microflora counts, bacterial metabolites, and pH.

Main Results:

Significant decrease in Clostridium perfringens counts and prevalence.
Significant increase in Bifidobacterium spp. percentage and volatile fatty acids (acetic, propionic).
Fecal pH was potentially reduced due to increased acid-forming bacteria and volatile fatty acids.

Conclusions:

Tea polyphenol consumption can beneficially alter gut microflora composition in humans.
The observed changes suggest a potential for improved gut health.
Effects were reversible, with parameters returning to normal after discontinuation.