Final Answer:
The food item that will provide sufficient probiotic bacteria to influence the bacterial population in the large intestine is (b) one serving of yogurt. The correct answer is (b) one serving of yogurt because yogurt is a rich source of probiotic bacteria, specifically _Lactobacillus_ and _Bifidobacterium_, which can positively influence the bacterial population in the large intestine, promoting digestive health.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yogurt is a rich source of probiotic bacteria, specifically lactic acid bacteria such as _Lactobacillus_ and _Bifidobacterium_. These probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that can survive the digestive process and reach the large intestine, positively impacting the gut microbiota. The probiotics in yogurt help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the large intestine, promoting digestive health and potentially offering other health benefits.
In contrast, the other options—margarine, cottage cheese, and honey—do not typically contain significant amounts of probiotic bacteria. Margarine is a processed spread, cottage cheese is primarily a source of protein and calcium, and honey is a natural sweetener but lacks probiotic content. Therefore, choosing yogurt as the food source in this context is grounded in the known presence of beneficial bacteria crucial for influencing the bacterial population in the large intestine.
Understanding the importance of probiotics in the gut underscores the significance of selecting the right food for this purpose. The decision to choose yogurt aligns with scientific evidence supporting its role in promoting a healthy gut microbiome. As individuals seek to enhance their digestive well-being, incorporating foods with live probiotics, such as yogurt, becomes a strategic and informed dietary choice.