PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla.—More than 95 percent of women feel digestive health is an important issue, and an equal number of women reported some form of digestive issue, including 55 percent who suffer on a regular basis, according to a new survey from the Enzyme Research Group (ERG) in association with Enzymedica. Of the 40 percent of women who said they have been diagnosed with a digestive disorder, Heartburn and GERD topped the list.
When it comes to digestive health symptoms, many females report feelings ‘post-meal pot-belly,’ as 42 percent said they are most likely to feel digestive issues after unbalanced meals. This bloating affects how 84 percent of women’s clothes fits, with 40 percent saying this happens regularly. Bloating also affects self-esteem (74 percent; 28 percent regularly).
Digestive issues on the whole cause 38 percent of women to be grouchy, and about a quarter of women (22 percent) said indigestion disrupts their sleep.
Thirty percent of women still menstruating said they experienced digestive issues that cycle with their periods, while 45 percent suffer bloating that comes with PMS, and 18 percent of women indicate yeast overgrowth or other female health concerns are also an issue. However, this issue persists later in life as well, with 50 percent of post-menopausal women reporting regular digestive issues.
The women surveyed in the study also indicate they are seeking a solution, with 65 percent saying they have used supplements, prescriptions or other products to deal with digestion. Women are using dietary supplements (87 percent), such as probiotics (76 percent) and enzymes (63 percent). A majority of women currently include yogurt and other fermented foods in their diet (55 percent). Women also use special foods and/or diets (55 percent) to help manage bloating and digestive heath.
While shopping, 97 percent of women read labels, and if a label says “supports digestive health” 79 percent stated they would be more inclined to purchase it. And, of those who have never used supplements, 49 percent stated that they would consider using dietary supplements to support healthy digestion.
Enzymedica sponsored the recent survey in association with The Enzyme Research Group. The survey evaluated 113 adult females, age 18 and older, surveying their experience with digestive health issues. The survey was conducted online and in anonymous interview and ran from Dec. 14, 2009 to Jan. 4, 2010.