"Research on Probiotics: How Microorganisms Benefit Life" by Associate Professor Dr. Malai Thaveechotiphat, Project Advisor and Product Developer of bioCRAFT by SAS, will provide answers to these questions for us.
Last updated: 17 Dec 2024
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How Do Microorganisms Benefit Life?"
For over two decadesmore than half a lifetimededicated to probiotics in every breath and every story, Associate Professor Dr. Malai Thaveechotiphat, Project Advisor and Product Developer of bioCRAFT Human by SAS, will share the answers with us.
Q: Why did you become interested in studying probiotics?
A: Previously, I focused on studying pathogenic microorganisms, such as the mechanisms of bacteria that cause gastric diseases and the development of vaccines to prevent diseases in animals. However, I realized that focusing on something that promotes health would be far more beneficial. This led me to become interested in good microorganisms. At that time, probiotic research was still rare. I foresaw that in the future, humans might no longer want to rely on antibiotics or antimicrobial agents but would instead seek something friendlier to the body. Probiotics are particularly fascinating because they are natural microorganisms in the human body and come with no side effects.
Q: How did you begin studying probiotics?
A: I started entirely from scratch. I had no idea which culture medium to use or where to source the microorganisms. I had to study textbooks and research from around the world, learning step by step. It was challenging in the early stages due to the lack of information, but my passion for research made me enjoy solving problems and continuously learning.
Q: What has kept you committed to probiotic research over the years?
A: My mentor had incredible foresight. Back in 2003, he said that probiotics would eventually be used as a replacement for medicine in the future. His words became a major driving force for me, and today, we can see that he was absolutely right.
What has kept me going is my love for research and unwavering belief in what I do. Probiotics are not just a research topicthey have become a part of my life.
Q: Have you developed your own probiotic strains?
A: Yes, we have developed our own probiotic strains, which is a crucial starting point. Without our own strains, we would have to depend on external sources, which would limit our ability to study and develop them fully. Developing our own strains is unavoidable, and it requires a lot of patience, time, physical effort, and mental dedication.
We began by isolating microorganisms from over 300 newborns and more than 100 types of traditional Thai fermented foods. Once isolated, the microorganisms had to go through multiple filtering processes, reducing tens of thousands of strains to just a handful of the best-performing ones.
Q: What makes these strains special?
A: The first distinction is that they are Thai strains. This uniqueness comes from being isolated from Thai people and Thai foods, making them more compatible and familiar to the local population. These strains have been proven to offer significant health benefits, such as reducing fat levels, inflammation, and free radicals, as well as boosting immunity.
The validation process includes in vitro testing, animal studies, and trials with Thai populations. I take immense pride in our probiotic strains because they feel like our children. I have witnessed their growth, observed their structures under microscopes, and hoped they would develop beneficial properties. Seeing the strains reach their full potential reflects the dedication of our entire research team.
Q: How do Thai probiotic strains differ from foreign strains?
A: While foreign probiotic strains are also beneficial, Thai strains have the advantage of being tested and proven specifically within Thai populations. Locally sourced strains evolve alongside local populations, making them more compatible and effective for people in the region.
Q: What do you consider your most significant achievement?
A: The most significant achievement for a researcher or professor is producing capable and high-quality students who can apply their knowledge to benefit society and generate new knowledge. This is the ultimate reward in my career as a researcher and educator.
Q: Do you have any advice for consumers regarding probiotics, and any concluding thoughts as an expert?
A: Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that have been in our bodies since birth. They help maintain balance, particularly in the digestive system, which is vital for overall health. Supplementing with probiotics is a safe and effective way to support the body's functions.
If the balance of microorganisms in the body is disruptedwhere bad bacteria outweigh the goodthis can lead to inflammation and various health issues. Consuming probiotics can help restore balance and reduce the risk of inflammation-related diseases.
Maintaining probiotics in the body is simple: eat nutritious foods, get adequate rest, and take care of your overall health. Probiotics are a part of our body and a crucial aspect of maintaining good health.
Q: Can probiotics be consumed through food?
A: Yes, certain fermented foods contain a mix of microorganisms, including probiotics. However, they may not provide sufficient amounts of probiotics and could include harmful bacteria. Taking probiotics in the form of supplements ensures that you receive purified and carefully selected strains.
Advances in technology now allow us to isolate and develop high-quality probiotic strains, which are then produced into safe, effective products. This makes it easier and safer for consumers to supplement probiotics and support their health.
For over two decadesmore than half a lifetimededicated to probiotics in every breath and every story, Associate Professor Dr. Malai Thaveechotiphat, Project Advisor and Product Developer of bioCRAFT Human by SAS, will share the answers with us.
Q: Why did you become interested in studying probiotics?
A: Previously, I focused on studying pathogenic microorganisms, such as the mechanisms of bacteria that cause gastric diseases and the development of vaccines to prevent diseases in animals. However, I realized that focusing on something that promotes health would be far more beneficial. This led me to become interested in good microorganisms. At that time, probiotic research was still rare. I foresaw that in the future, humans might no longer want to rely on antibiotics or antimicrobial agents but would instead seek something friendlier to the body. Probiotics are particularly fascinating because they are natural microorganisms in the human body and come with no side effects.
Q: How did you begin studying probiotics?
A: I started entirely from scratch. I had no idea which culture medium to use or where to source the microorganisms. I had to study textbooks and research from around the world, learning step by step. It was challenging in the early stages due to the lack of information, but my passion for research made me enjoy solving problems and continuously learning.
Q: What has kept you committed to probiotic research over the years?
A: My mentor had incredible foresight. Back in 2003, he said that probiotics would eventually be used as a replacement for medicine in the future. His words became a major driving force for me, and today, we can see that he was absolutely right.
What has kept me going is my love for research and unwavering belief in what I do. Probiotics are not just a research topicthey have become a part of my life.
Q: Have you developed your own probiotic strains?
A: Yes, we have developed our own probiotic strains, which is a crucial starting point. Without our own strains, we would have to depend on external sources, which would limit our ability to study and develop them fully. Developing our own strains is unavoidable, and it requires a lot of patience, time, physical effort, and mental dedication.
We began by isolating microorganisms from over 300 newborns and more than 100 types of traditional Thai fermented foods. Once isolated, the microorganisms had to go through multiple filtering processes, reducing tens of thousands of strains to just a handful of the best-performing ones.
Q: What makes these strains special?
A: The first distinction is that they are Thai strains. This uniqueness comes from being isolated from Thai people and Thai foods, making them more compatible and familiar to the local population. These strains have been proven to offer significant health benefits, such as reducing fat levels, inflammation, and free radicals, as well as boosting immunity.
The validation process includes in vitro testing, animal studies, and trials with Thai populations. I take immense pride in our probiotic strains because they feel like our children. I have witnessed their growth, observed their structures under microscopes, and hoped they would develop beneficial properties. Seeing the strains reach their full potential reflects the dedication of our entire research team.
Q: How do Thai probiotic strains differ from foreign strains?
A: While foreign probiotic strains are also beneficial, Thai strains have the advantage of being tested and proven specifically within Thai populations. Locally sourced strains evolve alongside local populations, making them more compatible and effective for people in the region.
Q: What do you consider your most significant achievement?
A: The most significant achievement for a researcher or professor is producing capable and high-quality students who can apply their knowledge to benefit society and generate new knowledge. This is the ultimate reward in my career as a researcher and educator.
Q: Do you have any advice for consumers regarding probiotics, and any concluding thoughts as an expert?
A: Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that have been in our bodies since birth. They help maintain balance, particularly in the digestive system, which is vital for overall health. Supplementing with probiotics is a safe and effective way to support the body's functions.
If the balance of microorganisms in the body is disruptedwhere bad bacteria outweigh the goodthis can lead to inflammation and various health issues. Consuming probiotics can help restore balance and reduce the risk of inflammation-related diseases.
Maintaining probiotics in the body is simple: eat nutritious foods, get adequate rest, and take care of your overall health. Probiotics are a part of our body and a crucial aspect of maintaining good health.
Q: Can probiotics be consumed through food?
A: Yes, certain fermented foods contain a mix of microorganisms, including probiotics. However, they may not provide sufficient amounts of probiotics and could include harmful bacteria. Taking probiotics in the form of supplements ensures that you receive purified and carefully selected strains.
Advances in technology now allow us to isolate and develop high-quality probiotic strains, which are then produced into safe, effective products. This makes it easier and safer for consumers to supplement probiotics and support their health.
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