1 in 5 Irish people suffer from regular stomach issues

ONE in five Irish people experience gastrointestinal problems such as bloating, constipation or diarrhoea.

And research shows many regularly suffer in silence due to embarrassment.

A new campaign launched yesterday is encouraging people to talk about symptoms and how they affect their lives.

Gut Check, which is run by Alflorex, aims to increase awareness about the treatments available for those who suffer from stomach problems.

Gastroenterologist at Dublin’s Blackrock Clinic Dr Deirdre O’donovan said: “Our lifestyles are becoming less conducive to healthy eating but if we don’t get the balance right, the whole body suffers.

“For a healthy gut, people need to add fibre, eat more plant-based foods, avoid too much red meat and reduce alcohol intake.

“We all need at least six cups of water per day to stay healthy. Equally, exercise is important as it reduces the transit time for food through the gut.”

Gastrointestinal problems can also be indicative of food intolerance – for example gluten or lactose.

And one in

Irish people 100 has