A few weeks ago I attended the International Probiotics Association World Congress in Los Angeles. Since then I haven’t had enough time to really reflect on the topics and seminars. But now the word is out on my new book “Probiotics For Dummies,” I can finally share with you a little of I learned…
After a weekend surrounded by numerous professionals in the probiotics world, I’m on information overload. The IPA convention brought together people dealing with every aspect of probiotics, from researchers to retailers to doctors like myself who see the tremendous potential in these beneficial bacteria.
One of the sure signs that people are starting to recognize the difference probiotics can make regarding your health was the numbers reports. The world market for probiotics in 2011 was around $2.7 billion, and one of the fastest growing markets was the United States.
This was a scientific conference, with numerous detailed workshops about how probiotics work in the body that highlighted the most current research. I returned to Kansas soil with a head full of facts and an even greater excitement about the implications of probiotics research for my profession.
Although I naturally appreciate all the potential in areas like cancer treatment, obesity and even mental health, I’m continually encouraged by what’s happening in the gastrointestinal field. The implication of probiotics in treating Crohn’s Disease, irritable bowel syndrome and other serious GI diseases is important and, I believe, has already changed how people view the bacteria in our bodies.
Now, I just need to let all the information that soaked into my head on a busy, productive weekend process. And then I’ll put it to work, incorporating probiotics into the lives of my patients.
Until next time!
Go with your gut,
Dr. S. Challa