A shocking 20 per cent of Irish people say that they would wait until a gut health problem became too painful to bear before seeking medical attention, according to research conducted by probiotic expert Yakult. The research also revealed that a worrying 74 per cent of Irish people are unlikely to talk to their doctor about a gut related problem. In response to this, Yakult has launched a nationwide New-Year campaign to raise awareness of the importance of good gut health.
According to a report by the HSE on the health status of the population of Ireland, diseases of the digestive system are among the most acute illnesses for inpatients in Irish hospitals. But are we suffering from digestive problems simply because of a lack of understanding? As a guide to helping us become more in tune with our digestive system, Yakult has published The Gut Translator explaining how each of the five senses can be used to indicate good or bad digestive health.
Health you can see: the humble stool holds more secrets than you would imagine. Unusual coloured faeces should set alarm bells ringing, black and sticky stools being a possible sign of intestinal bleeding and pale stools being a possible indication of gallstones or pancreatic disorder.
Gut feelings: indigestion is something many of us experience on a regular basis, but it could be a sign of something more serious other than just over-indulgence. Persistent indigestion could be a sign of an ulcer or possibly gallstones.
All in the best possible taste: a wide range of medical conditions can affect the sense of taste. Sufferers of acid reflux may be bothered by a metallic taste in the mouth. This is caused by regurgitated stomach acid and can leave the immune system weakened and vulnerable to more serious illnesses such as ulcers and cancers.
Listen carefully: burping is most commonly caused by the air that is taken in when swallowing mouthfuls of food needing to escape. It is normal for the average person to burp three or four times after a meal.
Scents and smells: avoiding preservative-rich highly processed food, as well as high protein foods such as red meat, can really reduce the bad smells and potential for those embarrassing, wind-breaking anti-social moments.
To download or order a free copy of The Gut Translator and to get advice and tips on how to maintain good gut health, go to www.yakult.ie
