Spring and summer are on the horizon, and with that comes the promise of more social events, sunny days and skin on show. As we shed the winter attire ready for the warmer months ahead, Optibac Probiotics are shining a light on the top digestive concerns stopping Irish women from having a good time this season.
Top digestive dilemmas
According to the latest consumer survey commissioned by Optibac, Ireland’s most trusted & recommended brand of friendly bacteria supplements†, the top digestive issues women want to address are bloating (40%), IBS (39%) and sensitive tummies (37%). Nutritional Therapist, Hannah Glithero explains:
“When you take into consideration how many tummy triggers women face daily – hormones, stress, and diet to name just a few – it’s not surprising that poor gut health is stopping women from feeling their best. Whether it’s because of social stigma, the gender health gap or simply not wanting to make a fuss, digestive problems often get brushed aside, but this survey highlights how debilitating they really are. However, making just one small change to consumers’ daily routines by including scientifically proven friendly bacteria, could make all the difference this spring.”
This news comes as Optibac launch a national radio campaign this April to raise awareness on the power of probiotics and help more people feel good, by encouraging consumers to visit their local store and save 20% across selected favourites.
Why spring can be tough on the gut
On top of the daily stresses women experience year round, bloating, indigestion and symptoms of IBS can all be triggered when attending more social events, eating out and indulging outside of normal diet and mealtimes. Spring also marks the start of hay fever season, which can present further challenges for digestive health. Nutritional Therapist Hannah Glithero sheds light on the science behind why gut health and seasonal allergies don’t mix:
“When excess mucus is produced in the nasal passages, we commonly expect to see a runny nose. However, a lesser known side to this process shows we also naturally swallow mucus and allergens, which make their way into our digestive system. These intruders can irritate the oesophagus and stomach lining, which in turn can cause symptoms such as heartburn, indigestion and nausea, as well as worsening conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).”
Seasonal IBS triggers
As well as general digestive complaints, consumers who suffer from IBS can also see their symptoms exacerbated during spring. This is timely, not only because April marks IBS Awareness Month in Ireland, but because seasonal allergies like hay fever can trigger certain reactions in the body, activating cells that cause inflammation for IBS sufferers. Hannah Glithero explains: “Allergens can make the gut more sensitive and cause changes to the digestive system’s rhythm and how it functions. This means speed and movement of stools may be altered, which can lead to discomfort or worsening IBS symptoms, just as social plans start to ramp up again.”
Empowering consumers to take control
Autonomy over health is top of mind when it comes to buying probiotics for women, with 45% saying they want to take responsibility over their health as their main motivation. The other key reason behind women’s desire to take control over their wellbeing is so they can feel like the best version of themselves (35%). But with only 1 in 10 consumers feeling very or extremely knowledgeable on probiotic supplements, how can we empower individuals to select the right probiotic for them? Hannah Glithero at Optibac commented:
“As a member of a team of qualified nutritional experts that speak directly to the public every day about their health priorities, we consistently see just how important it is to choose the optimal friendly bacteria for individual needs. The gut microbiome is as unique as a fingerprint, so selecting a supplement with extensively researched probiotic strains proven to target specific concerns can make all the difference. It’s this principle that has led us to formulate 14 different supplements to help put the power of gut health directly in people’s hands, so consumers can feel good when they opt for Optibac.”
Friendly bacteria supplements your customers can trust
Optibac Probiotics is Ireland’s most trusted & recommended† brand of friendly bacteria supplements. Using only the world’s most researched strains, the brand has been pioneering probiotics for over 20 years by prioritising gold standard science and natural ingredients. With thousands of five-star reviews on Trustpilot and different supplements suited to every stage of life, they’re a great addition to the shelves this spring and beyond, helping every kind of customer to feel their best.
Optibac Gut Health Gummies: Ideal for those wanting an all-rounder
Naturally delicious mixed berry gummies with friendly bacteria, plus Vitamin D & Zinc to maintain immunity, Calcium to support digestion and FOS fibres which increase natural gut bacteria; all in one daily supplement.
RRP: €15.95 for 30 gummies
Optibac Every Day: Ideal for those wanting great value, backed by science
Our No.1 choice for anyone looking for a bestselling, highly recommended friendly bacteria supplement. Make every day count with this daily multi-strain formulation, which includes 6 extensively researched strains to support gut health and overall wellbeing.
RRP: €17.50 for 30 capsules
Optibac Every Day EXTRA: Ideal for those with IBS
An advanced formula with the world’s most researched strain of acidophilus – Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM® – and no prebiotic FOS, making it suitable for those suffering with IBS-M or gut sensitivities. It is also scientifically proven to ease abdominal pain and occasional bloating. As well as shown to reduce hay fever symptoms and provide anti-inflammatory action.
RRP: €31.00 for 30 capsules
Optibac S. Boulardii: Ideal for those with diarrhoea
A pure Saccharomyces boulardii supplement, formulated with one of the most studied probiotics in the world. This unique friendly yeast is extensively researched and proven to support occasional and acute cases of diarrhoea, including those who suffer with IBS-D.
RRP: €24.99 for 40 capsules
Optibac Bifido & Fibre: Ideal for those with constipation
Formulated to support regularity and constipation, this friendly bacteria supplement contains 25 billion live cultures of Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12® and 4g of natural FOS fibres. Clinically researched and shown to improve constipation, including those who suffer with IBS-C.
RRP: €28.81 for 30 sachets
References:
†Optibac is the brand of friendly bacteria supplements most trusted & recommended by Irish consumers. See website T&Cs for survey details, 500 people, November 2024.
Survey conducted on 1,000 Irish women by Optibac Probiotics, June 2023
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Read IPN March HERE
