20 Questions
What is the main defining characteristic of probiotics according to the World Health Organization (WHO)?
They are administered in adequate amounts
How do probiotics help individuals who have undergone major changes in their normal microflora?
By reestablishing the natural balance of gastrointestinal flora
What distinguishes probiotics from prebiotics?
Prebiotics escape digestion in the upper gastrointestinal tract
Why might a strain selected as a probiotic in one animal not be suitable for another species?
Because different species have different normal microflora
Which food does NOT naturally contain the prebiotic oligofructose?
Asparagus
How are galacto-oligosaccharides mainly used?
In infant milk formula
What is lactulose primarily used for?
To treat constipation and hepatic encephalopathy
What effect does fermentation of oligofructose in the colon have?
Stimulates growth of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli
What is the term for the combination of prebiotics and probiotics in commercial products?
Synbiotics
Why are probiotics used after a course of antibiotics treatment?
To replenish good bacteria wiped out by antibiotics
Which term best describes substances that are not considered probiotics, according to the World Health Organization?
Dead microorganisms
In which situation would probiotics be especially beneficial according to the text?
Individuals undergoing surgery
Why might a strain selected as a probiotic in one animal not be suitable for another species?
Host-specificity
Which term refers to food ingredients that are available for microorganisms living in the colon?
Oligosaccharides
What distinguishes lactulose from oligofructose and inulin?
Lactulose is a synthetic sugar, while oligofructose and inulin are naturally occurring prebiotics.
What is a key difference between galacto-oligosaccharides and oligofructose in terms of production?
Galacto-oligosaccharides can be synthesized enzymatically, while oligofructose is mainly derived from dairy products.
What sets synbiotics apart from standalone prebiotics and probiotics?
Prebiotics and probiotics in synbiotics exert both prebiotic and probiotic effects.
How do antibiotics differ from synbiotics in terms of their impact on gut health?
Synbiotics promote a balance between good and bad bacteria in the gut.
What is a distinguishing feature of probiotics compared to prebiotics according to the text?
Probiotics replenish the beneficial bacteria in the gut.
In what way do oligofructose and inulin differ from galacto-oligosaccharides?
Oligofructose and inulin can be enzymatically synthesized from sucrose, while galacto-oligosaccharides cannot.
Learn about the World Health Organization's definition of probiotics as live microorganisms that provide health benefits. Explore the characteristics that differentiate probiotics from other types of microorganisms and the benefits they offer to individuals.
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