Probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics - Approaches modulating gut microbiota

Abstract

The dietary modulation of the human gut microflora is well known area of nutritional sciences. Probiotics are in use from ancient times, to modulate microbiota towards healthier composition whereas prebiotics and synbiotic concept is now gaining popularity among researchers. It is postulated that the effect of synbiotic food product is targeted towards two different regions of gastrointestinal tract. This may be achieved through the use of dietary supplementation. This article focuses through on how probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics contribute in modulat- ing indigenous microflora, proven with experimental evidences related to animal studies.