Definition of probiotics
The very origin of the word probiotics suggests - from the Greek - pro bios, meaning "for life," that probiotics will contain elements that promote life and health.
Although scientists have long argued over the definition of probiotics, the one currently in effect is the one adopted by the WHO (World Health Organization) in 2001, and denotes live microorganisms that, if administered in adequate amounts, will be able to provide a range of health benefits to the host.
What do probiotics contain?
Because microorganisms with potential health benefits are plentiful, it is difficult to answer this question in detail.
This is because some probiotic preparations will harbor a single, specific strain of bacteria with clinically proven health-promoting effects. Others, on the other hand, will contain many different species of microorganisms.
The former are most often used intentionally when there is an ailment proven to support treatment.
Others most often serve to stabilize the body's microbiome on a multidirectional level.
Probiotics and ...
Many preparations containing probiotics also conceal "food" for them - prebiotics, so as to allow them the best possible conditions for development, in order to promote health.