If you are affected by bloating, you are not alone. Over 9.5 million women in the UK suffer from bloating and related symptoms, including abdominal pain, gas, constipation and diarrhoea. [1]
Figures revealed by the NHS show that women are twice as likely to be affected by digestive symptoms as men[2].
The frequency and severity of these digestive symptoms are unpredictable, making everyday life and tasks that little bit harder. In extreme cases the ability to work, study and sleep is greatly affected. Enjoying everyday life is inhibited. One in five women cancel a date due to these symptoms while 66 percent cancel a social occasion or shopping trip. One of the most debilitating factors is self-image, how it makes women feel with 68 percent reporting ‘unattractiveness and feeling overweight’. [3]
Well-being is affected and can lead to bigger problems—particularly if left unaddressed. There is a certain stigma around all conditions related to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can be implied by these symptoms. Many women feel embarrassed to reach out and seek help, but there is help out there in the form of a good probiotic supplement.
As part of IBS awareness month in April 2017, Alflorex carried out independent research in the UK, to produce the most comprehensive study ever conducted on IBS suffers. More than 1,250 IBS suffers were polled in an effort to better understand how this chronic condition and all related symptoms impact on peoples lives.
The results in part stated that IBS and related symptoms left unmanaged can lead to social isolation and even depression.
Many suffers have a fear of flaring up on a night out or a social occasion, terrified of not being able to reach a bathroom in time. Instead of enjoying the experience of socialising, some are preoccupied with finding the location of the nearest toilet. This can lead to undue stress and anxiety that can amplify symptoms.
The good news is that a good quality probiotic can help alleviate symptoms and help to ease digestive issues.
Anyone who suffers from symptoms should not continue to suffer; there is help out there in the form of probiotics, available in pharmacies throughout the UK.
The live culture in Alflorex, 35624®, has been clinically tested by leading Scientists and Gastroenterologists in people with IBS*. These trials showed it reduces all of the following:
- Bloating & gas
- Abdominal Pain
- Unpredictable bowel movements
This naturally occurring ‘good’ bacterial strain is part of the family of bacteria given by mothers to babies at birth. For more information visit: www.precisionbiotics.com
