2. Functional foods Functional foods – substances or supplements administered to obtain a specific result in addition to basic nutrition. Also called “nutriceuticals” or “biotherapeutics” Examples: Prebiotics Probiotics
3. The concept of probiotics Probiotics (Greek) – “for life” WHO definition:Live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host
4. KEY POINTS Live micro organisms Can affect the intestinal flora Promoted as food supplements Huge market potential Many health claims…
5. History Fermented foods rich in probiotics are popular since prehistoric era eg: yoghurt,pickled vegetables.. Metchnikoff – 1907 – yogurt with Lactobacilli prolongs life Parker – 1974 – 1st to use the term probiotics Fuller – 1989 – defined probiotics
14. Symbiosis of gut flora Specially adapted commensals.. Beneficial to the host Stimulates immune function Produces antimicrobial substances Trophic effect on intestinal epithelium Maintains the enterohepatic circulation Involved in metabolic processes (i.e., fermentation) in the colon
27. Prebiotics: Nondigestible substances that provide a beneficial physiological effect for the host by selectively stimulating the favourable growth or activity of a limited number of indigenous bacteria
36. Summary Microflora of the large intestine protect against pathogenic bacteria and stimulate development of the immune system Probiotics and prebiotics in the diet can modify the composition and some metabolic activities of the microflora Do not extrapolate from one strain to another Many claims for the potential health benefits of prebiotics remain unproved Critically evaluate and use only when data supports
