Key Points discussed on Probiotics and their role in gastrointestinal health (during 2.1.12 Teleseminar)

I tuned in last night to the Live Teleseminar with Gastroenterologist Dr. Daniel Leffler, MD, MS of the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Registered Dietitian Shelley Case, a leading nutrition expert on celiac and the gluten-free diet. The event was sponsored by Jamieson Direct and the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness. I missed the first 15 minutes as I was on mom duty helping with homework. Eventually I was back in front of my computer, listening attentively to the question and answer session (isn’t technology grand!) with the two noted celiac experts. For the benefit of those unable to tune in, I’ve provided some key points which were discussed relating to the use of probiotics and their role in gastrointestinal health, namely Celiac, IBS and Gluten Sensitivity:

Based on answers/comments by Dr. Leffler and Shelley Case, in order for Probiotics to work effectively one must:

1. Take the right dosage of CFU’s
2. Take them regularly, not intermittent
3. Be sure the label guarantees potency through life of expiration date
4. Purchase from a reputable manufacturer
5. Best to take with a meal
6. Time of day does not matter, what is important is that they are taken every day

Other points discussed relating to Probiotics:

1. Probiotics should be considered if still experiencing bloating, constipation, diarrhea while maintaining a GF diet
2. One should feel a difference after taking for about a month – if symptoms have not improved, try another probiotic (may need to experiment to find the one that works for you!)
3. There is little toxicity with probiotic dosage, but perhaps best to start with a low dosage and work up to the recommended dosage
4. No issues seen at this point with long term use
5. Probiotics are “safe enough” (Leffler) for Children, though dose will be different
6. Both experts agreed there is still much to learn about the benefits of probiotics

If you have further questions on the use of probiotics please speak with your health care provider, nutritional expert or visit the websites of Dr. Leffler http://www.bidmc.org/Profiles/DanielALefflerMDMS.aspx and Shelley Case http://www.glutenfreediet.ca/ to contact them directly.

Jamieson’s website: http://jamiesondirect.com/

National Foundation for Celiac Awareness’ website: http://www.celiaccentral.org/

Disclaimer: CeliacCorner shall not be held responsible for any misinformation provided.

UPDATED 2.21.12: Here is the complete Transcript provided by Jamieson: http://jamiesondirect.com/probiotics/articles/JamiesonDirect_Feb_1_GI_Health_Teleseminar_Transcript.pdf