What defines the term "prebiotics"?

The term "prebiotics" specifically refers to non-digestible food components that serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria. These substances, often types of dietary fiber, help enhance the growth and activity of these positive microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract. By promoting the proliferation and activity of beneficial bacteria, prebiotics support gut health, improve digestion, and can even bolster the immune system.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately reflect the nature or function of prebiotics. Digestible food components that enhance gut health would pertain more to probiotics, which are live beneficial bacteria rather than non-digestible substances. Synthetic additives that improve food texture and medications that aid digestion both fall outside the scope of what prebiotics represent, as they do not focus on promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.