Prebiotic (nutrition)

Prebiotics are a type of fiber that the human body cannot digest. They serve as food for probiotics, which are tiny living microorganisms, including certain kinds of bacteria and yeasts, that are good for your health, especially your digestive system.

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Definition

The concept of prebiotics was first introduced in 1995 by Gibson and Roberfroid, who defined it as "a non-digestible food ingredient that beneficially affects the host by selectively stimulating the growth and/or activity of one or a limited number of bacteria in the colon, and thus improves host health."

Types of Prebiotics

Prebiotics are found in many fruits and vegetables, especially those that contain complex carbohydrates, such as fiber and resistant starch. These carbs aren't digestible by your body, so they pass through the digestive system to become food for the bacteria and other microbes.

Inulin

Inulin is a type of prebiotic that is found in foods such as wheat, onions, bananas, and garlic. It is a soluble fiber that is not digestible by the human body, but is used as food by beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Fructooligosaccharides (FOS)

Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are a type of prebiotic that can be found in various fruits and vegetables, including bananas, onions, and garlic. They are also used as food by beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Galactooligosaccharides (GOS)

Galactooligosaccharides (GOS) are a type of prebiotic that can be found in various dairy products. They are also used as food by beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Health Benefits

Prebiotics have been shown to have a number of health benefits, including improving gut health, helping with weight management, and potentially reducing the risk of certain types of cancer.

Gut Health

Prebiotics can help to improve gut health by increasing the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut, and reducing the number of harmful bacteria. This can help to improve digestion and reduce the risk of digestive disorders.

Weight Management

Prebiotics can also help with weight management by helping to regulate appetite and reduce calorie intake.

Cancer Risk

Some research has suggested that prebiotics may help to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, including colon cancer. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.

See Also

• Probiotic
• Dietary fiber
• Human gastrointestinal microbiota