International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

What term describes a compound that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut?

1. Probiotic

2. Enzyme

3. Prebiotic

4. Antibiotic

The correct answer is: Prebiotic

A compound that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut is specifically known as a prebiotic. Prebiotics are non-digestible food components, typically found in certain fibers and carbohydrates, that serve as food for the beneficial bacteria residing in the gastrointestinal tract. By nourishing these good bacteria, prebiotics help to enhance the gut microbiome, contributing to better digestive health, improved immune function, and overall well-being. Probiotics, while also beneficial for gut health, refer to live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit to the host. They are not compounds that promote the growth of such bacteria, but rather they are the actual bacteria themselves. Enzymes, on the other hand, are biological molecules that speed up chemical reactions in the body and do not specifically target the growth of gut bacteria. Antibiotics are medications used to combat bacterial infections and can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria by killing both harmful and beneficial bacteria, thus they do not promote growth of beneficial bacteria.