probiotic

[proh-bahy-ot-ik]

noun

1. a food, usually dairy, or a dietary supplement containing live bacteria that replace or add to the beneficial bacteria normally present in the gastrointestinal tract.

   This chewable probiotic is packed with 10 billion live cultures.

2. a bacterium in a food or dietary supplement that replaces or adds to the beneficial bacteria normally present in the gastrointestinal tract.

   The probiotic in this product is a close cousin of brewer's yeast.

adjective

1. being or relating to a food or dietary supplement containing live bacteria that replace or add to the beneficial bacteria normally present in the gastrointestinal tract.

   The doctor recommended a probiotic yogurt drink for my stomach problems.

probiotic

/ ˌprəʊbaɪˈɒtɪk /

noun

1. a harmless bacterium that helps to protect the body from harmful bacteria

2. a substance that encourages the growth of natural healthy bacteria in the gut

adjective

1. of or relating to probiotics

   probiotic yogurt

Word History and Origins

Origin of probiotic¹

First recorded in 1950-55; pro- ¹ + biotic, modeled on antibiotic

Word History and Origins

Origin of probiotic¹

C20: from _pro- ¹ + ( _anti ) _biotic

Example Sentences

The research also found that supplements such as psyllium fiber, certain probiotics, and magnesium oxide may provide additional relief.

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Researchers reporting in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces have developed a new type of supplement that blends iron with prebiotics and probiotics.

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The best remedy is to focus on fruit and drinks first, rather than worrying about the latest probiotic in the supermarket, she says.

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"They're the same kinds of good bacteria we pay for in probiotics or drinks," Willis explains.

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But now, not only do people know what it is, but people are eating it, understanding the probiotic qualities that it has.

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