🧷 Authentic Classroom Explanation by IAS Monk

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📌 The Question

Consider the following statements in respect of probiotics:

1. Probiotics are made of both 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?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 2 and 3

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✅ Answer

(c)

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🧑‍🏫 Classroom Explanation

Probiotics are live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.

• Statement 1 is correct:
  Probiotics include both bacteria and yeasts.
  • Common bacterial probiotics: Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium
  • Common yeast probiotic: Saccharomyces boulardii
• Statement 2 is not correct:
  Many probiotic organisms naturally occur in the human gut as part of the normal gut microbiota. Probiotic foods and supplements often replenish or strengthen these existing populations.
• Statement 3 is correct:
  Probiotics help in the digestion of milk sugar (lactose) by producing the enzyme lactase, thereby reducing lactose intolerance symptoms.

Hence, statements 1 and 3 are correct.

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🔍 Curiosity Raiser

Why do fermented foods like curd and yogurt improve digestion more effectively than milk in lactose-intolerant individuals?

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📚 Enrichment Notes

• Probiotics support:
  • Gut health and digestion
  • Immune system modulation
  • Prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhea
• Prebiotics ≠ Probiotics
  • Prebiotics: Food for beneficial bacteria
  • Probiotics: Beneficial bacteria themselves
• The gut microbiome is often called the “second brain” due to its influence on immunity and mental health.

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🪔 IAS Monk Whisper

“Not all microbes are enemies; some are silent guardians of health.”