Slide Show: Prebiotics in Nutrition

A complex community of microorganisms inhabits the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, but the colon is certainly the main site of this microbial colonization. Recent research has convincingly shown that the large bowel and its microbiota form a strong symbiotic association and interact with each other to play major roles not only in colonic function, but also in whole body physiology, including endocrine activities, immunity and even brain function. This slide show, adapted from chapter three of CRC Press’ "Handbook of Prebiotics," offers a more in-depth look at prebiotics and their role in digestive and immune health.