What is true about probiotics and prebiotics?

• A. Probiotics are vitamins; prebiotics are minerals
• B. Prebiotics are live bacteria
• C. Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria; prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that feed these bacteria; together may improve gut health and immunity
• D. Probiotics and prebiotics have no role in gut health

Answer: (C)

Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that can help maintain or restore a healthy balance of gut microbiota when consumed in adequate amounts. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that reach the colon and serve as food for those beneficial bacteria, helping them grow and thrive. When used together, they can work synergistically to support gut health and may influence immune function, since the gut microbiome interacts closely with the immune system. The word “may” is important, as effects vary by the specific strains and doses used, the individual’s existing gut flora, and overall diet. The other statements mischaracterize probiotics and prebiotics—for example, probiotics aren’t vitamins and prebiotics aren’t live bacteria—and clinical benefits in gut health are not dismissed.