You’re only human, right?
Well, actually no, you’re more bacteria than human. During National Science & Engineering week in March, the IFR is holding a free public lecture on probiotics and the microbes that live in our guts that are so vital to our health. Find out more about the trillions of bacteria that call our bodies home at this free public lecture by world leading probiotics expert Professor Gregor Reid of the Canadian Research & Development Centre for Probiotics.

18:30, Wednesday 19th March, The Assembly House, Norwich

You’re only human, right? Well, actually no, you’re more bacteria than human!

These tiny microbes are part of who you are and they influence more than you can imagine.  They affect your heart, diabetes, reproduction, cancer and even your brain and mood.  They’re in places you least expect and most of them are critical to your life.  You’ve probably heard of probiotics, and despite their critics some of them really are helpful in restoring and maintaining health.  You’d gladly accept a kidney from a donor if it saved your life, but what about someone’s poop?  In short, the microbial revolution is happening – come hear what it might mean for you.

Gregor Reid

Gregor Reid is one of the world’s foremost experts on probiotics – microorganisms that produce many health benefits.

The endowed chair of the Canadian Research & Development Centre for Probiotics at Lawson Health Research Institute works extensively in Africa, including with the Western Heads East program in Tanzania and Kenya.  With Reid’s help, the program has introduced probiotic yogurt to rural communities in order to begin to address the malnutrition and HIV/AIDS crises in Africa.

Reid’s research helps understand how probiotics – which means ‘for life’ – affect primarily female health.  This includes what microbes inhabit the healthy and infected vagina, and how through modification, the quality of life of women can be enhanced.  His current work is aimed at reducing morbidity and mortality of mothers and babies in Africa, as well as improving cognitive function in infants.

He is a Professor of Microbiology and Immunology and Surgery at Western and has published almost 400 papers.

Attendance is FREE but places must be reserved