Consider the following statements in respect of probiotics :
- Probiotics are made of both bacteria and yeast.
- The organisms in probiotics are found in foods we ingest but they do not naturally occur in our gut.
- Probiotics help in the digestion of milk sugars.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
1 only
2 only
1 and 3
2 and 3
Answer is Wrong!
Answer is Right!
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2022
– Statement 2 is incorrect: The beneficial organisms used in probiotics, such as various species of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, are natural inhabitants of the human gut microbiome. Probiotics are consumed to supplement or enhance these populations.
– Statement 3 is correct: Some probiotic strains, particularly certain bacteria like Lactobacillus species, produce the enzyme beta-galactosidase (lactase), which helps break down lactose (milk sugar). This can aid in the digestion of milk sugars, especially for individuals with lactose intolerance.