UPSC Prelims 2022 Question:

Consider the following statements in respect of probiotics:

1. Probiotics are made both of bacteria and yeast.
2. The organisms in probiotics are found in foods we ingest but they do not naturally occur in our gut.
3. Probiotics help in the digestion of milk sugars.
   
   

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Explanation: 

• • Probiotics are live microorganisms that are intended to have health benefits when consumed or applied to the body. They can be found in yogurt and other fermented foods, dietary supplements, and beauty products. Although people often think of bacteria and other microorganisms as harmful “germs,” many are actually helpful. Some bacteria help digest food, destroy disease-causing cells, or produce vitamins.
    
    

• Probiotics may contain a variety of microorganisms. The most common are bacteria that belong to groups called Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Other bacteria may also be used as probiotics, and so may yeasts such as Saccharomyces boulardii. Many of the microorganisms in probiotic products are the same as or similar to microorganisms that naturally live in our bodies. So, statement 1 is correct and statement 2 is not correct.
  
  

• L. acidophilus is a probiotic bacterium that naturally occurs in the human gut and other parts of the body. This bacterium helps the digestive system break down sugars, such as lactose, into lactic acid. So, statement 3 is correct.
  
  

Therefore, option (3) is the correct answer.

Subject: Science & Technology|Biology