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Bio Project

Uploaded by

rishabhplayzomg
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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CERTIFICATE

Master________________________________________
Examination Registration no.
_________________________ has satisfactorily
completed the biology investigatory project in Grade -
12B during the academic session 2024 – 25 as prescribed
by the C.B.S.E., New Delhi.

____________________

Teacher – in – charge

Date of Examination : _______________________

__________________ ________________
ExternalExaminer InternalExaminer

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

With the completion of my project, I would like to take


this opportunity to wholeheartedly thank every individual
who has supported me in conducting this project.

Firstly, I would like to express my deep gratitude to Ms.


Sujatha, for her invaluable guidance and knowledge. I
owe all my gratitude to her for being my mentor and
enriching my project with his valuable input.

Incessant support and guidance were provided to us by


our laboratory assistants, Ms.Ambika, and Ms. Zainab for
helping me out during practicals.

I am highly indebted to the school faculty, especially our


Senior Leadership Team, for providing me with the
facilities required during the making of this project.

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INDEX

Serial Subject Page


number number
1. Certificate of achievement 1
2. Acknowledgment 2
3. Introduction to probiotics 4
4. Types of probiotics 5
5. Health benefits of probiotics 6
6. Preparation of probiotics 7
7. Conclusion 11
8. Bibliography 12

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Introduction to Probiotics

The term Probiotics is derived from the Latin words “Pro”,


which means “for” and the Greek word biotics meaning “bios”
or “life”

Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits


when consumed in adequate amounts. They are commonly
known as "good" or "friendly" bacteria because they help
maintain a balance of gut microbiota and contribute to the
body's overall health. Probiotics can be found in fermented
foods, supplements, and even in certain dairy products.
In layman terms, probiotics are combination of live beneficial
bacteria and/or yeast that naturally live in our body. They are
naturally found in dairy supplements such as Yogurt, Curd,
buttermilk, cottage cheese.

The most common genera of probiotics include Lactobacillus,


Bifidobacterium, Saccharomyces, and Streptococcus species.
These microorganisms help improve digestion, support immune
function, reduce inflammation, and maintain a balanced gut
flora. Some studies have also shown benefits for mental health,
such as reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, often
referred to as the gut-brain axis.

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Types of Probiotics

Probiotics can be classified based on their genus, species, and


strain. The following are common types used in supplementation
and food products:

- Lactobacillus species: These bacteria are


among the most well-known and found in many
fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and
kefir. They are primarily involved in the
fermentation of sugars to produce lactic acid.

- Bifidobacterium species: These bacteria are


predominantly found in the intestines and are
essential for maintaining gut health. They are often
found in dairy products like yogurt and are known
for their ability to break down carbohydrates, fiber,
and sugars.

- Saccharomyces boulardii: This is a yeast-


based probiotic used to treat and prevent
diarrhea and improve gut health.

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- Streptococcus thermophilus: Often used in
yogurt-making, this bacterium aids in lactose
digestion and has been found to be beneficial
for gastrointestinal health.

Health Benefits of Probiotics

Probiotics have a wide range of health benefits, many of which


are supported by scientific research:

- Gut Health: The primary benefit of probiotics is their ability


to support the gut microbiota. They help prevent or alleviate
gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea, irritable bowel
syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Probiotics help restore balance in the gut microbiota, which can
be disrupted by factors like antibiotics, stress, or a poor diet.

- Immune System Support: Probiotics can stimulate the


production of specific immune cells, like T lymphocytes and

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IgA-producing cells, enhancing the body's defense mechanisms
against pathogens.

- Mental Health: Recent research has suggested that gut health


influences the brain, often called the "gut-brain axis." Probiotics
may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and even
reduce stress levels.

- Digestive Health: Probiotics assist in the digestion of food by


breaking down complex carbohydrates and fiber, and they also
help digest lactose in people who are lactose intolerant.

- Prevention of Infections: Some probiotics can help prevent


urinary tract infections, yeast infections, and other infections by
outcompeting harmful microorganisms.

Preparation of Probiotics

Probiotics can be prepared in various forms, including


fermented foods, beverages, and dietary supplements. The
preparation methods aim to ensure the microorganisms remain
alive and viable until they are consumed.

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Fermented Foods
Fermented foods are a natural source of probiotics. The
preparation of these foods involves the use of beneficial
microorganisms to break down food components like sugars and
starches. Some popular probiotic-rich fermented foods include:

- Yogurt: Made from milk fermented by beneficial bacteria like


*Lactobacillus* and *Streptococcus thermophilus*.

- Kefir: A fermented dairy product containing a mixture of


bacteria and yeasts.

- Kimchi and Sauerkraut: Fermented vegetables, typically


cabbage, that undergo lacto-fermentation.

- Tempeh and Miso: Fermented soy products.

Probiotic Supplements
Probiotic supplements are designed to deliver a specific strain or
combination of strains of probiotics. These are available in
various forms, including:

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- Capsules and Tablets: Most commonly used for delivering
probiotics. They are convenient and easy to use but require
careful storage to maintain the viability of the bacteria.

- Powdered Form: Powders are often mixed with water or other


liquids. They can be a more concentrated form of probiotics but
may require refrigeration.

- Liquids and Gels: Some probiotic strains are more effective in


liquid form and are available as drinks or gel-based products.

- Chewables and Gummies: These forms are more popular for


children or individuals who prefer not to swallow pills.

Factors Affecting Probiotic Preparation


Several factors influence the preparation and efficacy of
probiotics:

- Storage Conditions: Probiotics must be stored under


conditions that preserve their viability. Most probiotic strains are
sensitive to heat, moisture, and light. They often require
refrigeration to maintain their potency.

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- Encapsulation: Some probiotics are encapsulated to protect
them from stomach acid, ensuring that the beneficial bacteria
reach the intestines intact.

- Strain Selection: Different strains of probiotics have varying


health effects. Therefore, the preparation must use specific
strains that have been shown to provide the desired health
benefits.

- Concentration: The number of live microorganisms (colony-


forming units or CFUs) per serving is crucial for ensuring that
the probiotic provides therapeutic benefits.

Challenges in Probiotic Preparation


- Stability: Probiotics can lose their potency over time,
especially if they are exposed to unfavorable conditions.
Maintaining stable concentrations of probiotics in supplements
is a challenge.

- Survival in the Gastrointestinal Tract: Not all probiotics can


survive the acidic environment of the stomach and reach the
intestines. Encapsulation technologies or using resistant strains
can help address this challenge.

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Conclusion

Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that contribute


significantly to maintaining gut health and overall well-being.
They can be consumed through fermented foods or supplements,
and their health benefits include improving digestion, supporting
immune function, and even promoting mental health. However,
careful consideration should be given to their preparation and
storage to ensure that the probiotics remain alive and effective
when consumed. The ongoing research in the field continues to
uncover the diverse and potent health benefits of probiotics,
making them a valuable addition to a healthy diet.

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Bibliography
- https://www.healthifyme.com/blog/traditional-indian-
probiotics-good/
- https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/ss/slideshow-
probiotics
- www.wikipedia.com
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4053917/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-super-healthy-
probiotic-foods
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-benefits-
of-probiotics
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/14598

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