Unveiling the Health Benefits of Prebiotics: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Prebiotics play a pivotal role in fostering probiotics, essential contributors to the creation and maintenance of a conducive environment for beneficial microbiota within the human gut. To qualify as a prebiotic, a substance must demonstrate resilience to stomach enzymes, acidic pH levels, and intestinal bacteria, remaining unabsorbed in the digestive system while remaining accessible to gut microflora. The integration of prebiotics and probiotics into our daily diet establishes a cornerstone for optimal health, a priority for health-conscious consumers emphasizing nutrition that supports a balanced gut flora. Prebiotics offer diverse biological functions in humans, exhibiting antiobesity, antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and cholesterol-lowering properties, along with preventing digestive disorders. Numerous dietary fibers possessing prebiotic attributes are inadvertently present in our diets, emphasizing the broader significance of prebiotics. It is crucial to recognize that, while all dietary fibers are prebiotics, not all prebiotics fall under the category of dietary fibers. The versatile applications of prebiotics extend across various industries, such as dairy, bakery, beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and other food products. This comprehensive review provides insights into different prebiotics, encompassing their sources, chemical compositions, and applications within the food industry.

Keywords: Dietary fiber; Heath effect; Oligosaccharide; Prebiotic; Probiotics.

Fig. 1

Classification of dietary fibers