When it comes to choosing supplements I always do my research, Dr Ayan Panja is someone who I follow on social media and trust. Knowing that he is a spokesperson for Bimuno made me want to work on their campaign to improve gut health knowledge.
Bimuno is a product which belongs to a special group of nutrient fibres, called oligosaccharides that naturally feed and stimulate the growth of preferred bacteria in the gut. Now you may wonder why it is so important to supplement in order to maintain a healthy gut. For example, I like to think that I eat healthily 80% of the time, however lifestyle triggers like stress or lack of sleep can eventually affect your healthy gut balance. I know that when I’m stressed or if I have a busy week I will end up feeling drained and in turn get stomach pain from anxiety.
What does Bimuno do?
Published scientific research has demonstrated that Bimuno works in 3 principal ways for a triple impact within the body;
- Resets and increases friendly gut bacteria
- Maintains immune health*
- Works in your gut to support your natural systems
Bimuno recently conducted some research with Censuswide on gut health over the festive period, the research looked into the unforeseen, unexpected behaviours and repercussions relating to food, digestion and immune systems over the Christmas period.
- Christmas has been cited as the ‘windiest season’ with over 20% of the UK admitting to having arguments or falling out over flatulence during the festive period. It’s gotten so bad for some that it’s led to 16% of 16-24 year olds leaving a gaseous festive gathering according to the research.
- But it’s not just bad flatulence that causes distress during this time – 40% of respondents admit to feeling tired and run-down over Christmas – the ‘Festive Flu’ – with 40% also stating that it took them up to two weeks to feel ‘normal’ again. The biggest causes? Excess eating (43%), rich food (34%), the stress of shopping (33%), the change in weather (30%) and drinking alcohol (29%).
- 40% of people admit to feeling tired and run-down over Christmas. Excess eating (43%), rich food (34%), stress of shopping (33%), the change in weather (30%) and drinking alcohol (29%) are the top five causes
- 30% of 35-44 year olds think age is making them feel the effects of the Christmas indulgences more (23% of all respondents agree)
However for the most interesting findings were that 7% of people avoid festive food they LOVE for fear of the digestive repercussions. I am the complete opposite, however this then results in me falling into a food coma and feeling bloated and run down over the New Year.
So what can we do to reduce the negative side effects?
- Eat more fibre. Fruit, vegetables, pulses, nuts and wholegrains feed healthy bacteria.
- If your diet is low in fibre, a sudden increase can cause wind and bloating. Reduce this by making gradual changes and drink extra water.
- Antibiotics kill ‘good’ bacteria as well as ‘bad’. If you need antibiotics, make sure you eat lots of foods that boost your microbes afterwards.
- Manage stress. Exercise, meditation, mindfulness can all help.
- Remembering to the above can be difficult over this period so make life a little easier – take a daily supplement like Bimuno which promotes the growth of ‘good’ bacteria in your gut.
- Swap your fizzy drink for a fizzy probiotic like Kombucha.
What steps will you be taking to ensure you maintain a healthy gut over the festive season?
*Collaborative Post*
