Peer Reviewed
Gastroenterology clinic

Prebiotics and probiotics

Jacqueline S Barrett, Jane G Muir, Peter R Gibson
Abstract
There is much interest in the use of probiotics, live micro-organisms that deliver a health benefit to the host, and prebiotics, food components that selectively stimulate the growth or activity of intestinal bacteria. In a limited number of situations, there is evidence to support the use of probiotics. Currently, there are no evidence-based indications for supplemental prebiotics.
Key Points
    Remember
    Prebiotics
    • Prebiotics are food ingredients that escape digestion, reach the large intestine and selectively stimulate the growth and/or activity of bacteria that are believed to be beneficial to health, such as bifidobacteria and lactic acid bacteria.
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