More than a third of Brits think they might have an undiagnosed condition with their gut – but refuse to go to the doctor. A study of 2,000 adults found that while diet, social life and confidence are affected by constant discomfort, 46 per cent of sufferers worry it’s not serious enough to seek treatment. But a quarter of those polled say the debilitating illness leaves them feeling less self-assured, and one in six are unable to meet others as and when they would want. While one third of adults are left with feelings of anxiety as their mental health has taken a turn for the worse.
When it comes to diet, 39 per cent of people are unable to eat what they want – which makes them feel ‘down’. Dr Chris George, speaking on behalf of Symprove Ltd, which commissioned the research, said: “When it comes to our health, it’s time to start oversharing. Talking about so-called ‘embarrassing’ digestive symptoms is the first step in our journeys to happier, healthier lifestyles as research has shown links between our gut microbiome and so many aspects of our overall health and wellbeing. Spicy foods, processed products and dairy were the items Brits most struggled with after eating.
More than a quarter wish there was more easily accessible support for gut health conditions, with a fifth preferring the idea of speaking to a specialist as one in six feels uncomfortable at the thought of explaining their toilet habits with a GP.
