Gastrointestinal health problems 'the last taboo'

Health issues relating to bowel cancer remain taboo for many people, however, ignoring digestive problems could have serious implications, experts warn.

Research reveals that one third of people feel uncomfortable discussing bowel habits with their physician, putting themselves at risk of developing untreatable problems.

Judith Mann, PR manager for Yakult, said: "There's still a taboo about talking about bowel habits. We've found that people are very happy discussing a whole range of things with their work mates or their partner – things like their sex lives, relationship problems, money problems – but talking about your guts and your bowel problems really is the last taboo."

An individual's intestinal flora contains bacteria weighing approximately 1kg. If these bacteria were lined up side by side, they would stretch twice round the equator.

Common digestive complaints include, constipation, diarrhoea, coeliac disease, crohn's disease, gallstones, haemorrhoids and irritable bowel syndrome.

Ms Mann explained that eating five portions of fruit and vegetables each day is very important for maintaining gastrointestinal health, as is following a diet rich in fibre. Other key lifestyle factors such as drinking plenty of water, not smoking, staying active and good quality sleep are also beneficial for a healthy digestive system.

Studies have shown that stress can have a significant impact on the digestive system.