2023-09-20 16:04:40
“Uncovering the Secrets of Gut Health: International Medical Conference Explores the Benefits of Probiotics”
Last week, the Saudi Society of Family and Community Medicine sponsored an international medical conference titled “Unlocking the Secrets of Gut Health.” The conference, organized by the Expertise Forum and sponsored by Jamjoom Pharma, focused on the uses of probiotics in primary healthcare practices.
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts with various health benefits. They are known to help restore the normal balance of bacteria in the digestive tract when it is disrupted by illness or medication. The conference brought together an elite group of consultant doctors specializing in this field from around the world.
Dr. Ashraf Abdul Qayyum Amir, the conference chairman and a Family Medicine Consultant, explained that the event aimed to discuss the latest developments in probiotics and their application in primary healthcare practices. The conference was accredited by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties and targeted various health personnel, including general practitioners, family medicine practitioners, internal medicine specialists, gastroenterologists, emergency medicine doctors, and dieticians.
During the conference, Dr. Ashraf Amir emphasized the importance of beneficial bacteria, commonly known as probiotics, in maintaining a healthy digestive system. He explained that probiotics enhance the immune system in the digestive tract, improving digestion, absorption of nutrients, and overall health. They can also help prevent diarrhea, colic, and other digestive issues, including irritable bowel syndrome.
Dr. Amir highlighted two types of beneficial bacteria discussed at the conference. The first is the “Lacto bisilicum” group, found in yogurt and milk, which plays a significant role in preventing diarrhea and colic in children and maintaining intestinal health. The second type is “Bifido” bacteria, known for its ability to protect the intestinal system from infections and relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Probiotics also help achieve a balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria in the digestive system, enhancing the strength of the immune system.
Dr. Ashraf Amir reassured attendees that probiotics are safe and do not have any harmful effects. He acknowledged that in some cases, individuals may experience temporary side effects such as gas or diarrhea when using probiotics for the first time. However, these side effects usually subside as the body adapts to the beneficial bacteria.
Dr. Matthew Tracy, Director of the Center for Functional Medicine and Wellness at the International Medical Center, discussed the mechanism of administering probiotics. He explained that probiotics are living microorganisms that positively regulate the intestinal microbial composition. Maintaining a balance of intestinal microorganisms is crucial in preventing many diseases. Dr. Tracy referred to a recent study that emphasized the therapeutic and preventive effects of a specific probiotic mixture called VSL#3. This mixture, consisting of eight live bacterial strains, has shown promising results in treating various systemic diseases, including gastrointestinal diseases, liver diseases, diabetes, and more.
Dr. Tracy further highlighted the detrimental effects of antibiotics on beneficial bacteria, leading to an increase in various disease conditions. Overuse of antibiotics has been linked to the rise in allergies, asthma, and obesity. As such, Dr. Tracy emphasized the importance of finding alternatives to antibiotics.
Professor Myeong Soo Park, CEO of the South Korean company “Bifido” Ltd., shared the latest study conducted on the microbiome and the development of probiotics. He discussed the importance of Bifidobacterium for intestinal and overall health. The study revealed that Bifidobacterium levels decrease with age, which can lead to various diseases in the elderly. Professor Park highlighted the need to restore the levels of Bifidobacterium in the human body to enhance intestinal and overall health.
Regarding probiotic products available in Saudi Arabia, Professor Park mentioned a group called “PROLIFE.” These probiotics, including PROLIFE Premium and PROLIFE SHIELD, consist of various strains of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. They support the natural balance of beneficial bacteria in the intestines and improve digestive health.
The International Medical Conference on “Uncovering the Secrets of Gut Health” provided valuable insights into the uses and benefits of probiotics in primary healthcare practices. The conference emphasized the role of probiotics in maintaining a healthy digestive system, boosting the immune system, and preventing various diseases. With the growing evidence of the harmful effects of antibiotics, probiotics have emerged as a safe and effective alternative for maintaining gut health.]
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