What are prebiotics?

Prebiotics are defined as non-digestible food components that specifically promote the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut. They are typically forms of dietary fiber that the human body cannot digest, but they serve as food for the good bacteria, like bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, found in the intestines. By nourishing these beneficial microorganisms, prebiotics can help to enhance gut health, improve digestion, and potentially boost the immune system.

In the context of gut health, these non-digestible components contribute to improved gut microbiota composition, leading to various health benefits. This includes better nutrient absorption, reduced risk of gastrointestinal diseases, and positive impacts on metabolism.

Other answer choices reflect concepts that are not aligned with the definition of prebiotics. Digestible food components, while important for overall nutrition, do not specifically support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Processed foods may not necessarily contain prebiotics and can often lack the health benefits that fresh, whole foods provide. Proteins that enhance mood refer to a different category of nutrients (e.g., amino acids), which are not connected to the concept of prebiotics. This is why the focus on non-digestible food components is central to understanding what pre