Microflora
Microorganisms, primarily bacteria, living on the surface and in the orifices of the body. The microflora in the large intestine also is called the gut flora.
Fermentation
The conversion by microorganisms in the colon of non-digestible fibers into short chain fatty acids and biomass.
Prebiotics
Food components, primarily fibers, that selectively stimulate beneficial bacterial growth in the large intestine.
Probiotics
Live bacteria that are ingested and subsequently contribute to a beneficial microflora in the large intestine.
Synbiotics
Combinations of one or more prebiotics and probiotics.
Antibiotics
Substances that fight pathogens, mostly bacteria. Antibiotics are generally not selective, so they may also damage beneficial microflora. That is why prebiotics, probiotics or synbiotics are increasingly used when an antibiotic treatment is given.