prebiotic

Non-digestible oligosaccharides that support the growth of colonies of certain bacteria in the colon. They include derivatives of fructose and galactose, and lead to the growth of bifidobacteria, so changing and possibly improving the colonic flora. Probiotics and prebiotics are sometimes termed synbiotics. They are considered to play a role as functional foods.

Nutrients that support growth and activity of bacteria, principally bifidobacteria, and resist absorption in the upper small intestine. Includes indigestible carbohydrates, inulins and lactulose.