Consider the following statements in respect of probiotics : 1. Probiotics are made of both bacteria and yeast. 2. The organisms in probiotics are found in foods we ingest but they do not naturally occur in our gut. 3. Probiotics help in the digestion of milk sugars. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. Statement 1: Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. These microorganisms commonly include various strains of bacteria (e.g., Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium) and can also include certain types of yeast (e.g., Saccharomyces boulardii). Therefore, probiotics can be made of both bacteria and yeast. This statement is correct. 2. Statement 2: The organisms used as probiotics are often selected because they are similar or identical to the beneficial microbes that naturally occur in the human gut (the gut microbiota). While they are also found in fermented foods that we ingest, the assertion that they do not naturally occur in our gut is incorrect. This statement is incorrect. 3. Statement 3: Certain probiotic bacteria, particularly species of Lactobacillus, produce the enzyme lactase. Lactase is necessary for the digestion of milk sugars (lactose). Therefore, these probiotics can help improve lactose digestion, especially in individuals with lactose intolerance. This statement is correct. 4. Since statements 1 and 3 are correct, the correct option is (C).