More than 6.5 million Brits are believed to be grappling with digestive issues. From uncomfortable bloating to painful cramps, urgent toilet dashes to gurgling stomachs, the symptoms can vary from mildly irritating to severely disruptive.
This unexpected need to rush to the loo has been termed ‘Bowel Urgency’ and can wreck outings, whether shopping trips or countryside walks, when struck by the sudden panic. Gut Wealth founder and specialist Gemma Stuart offered five strategies for managing bowel urgency. Speaking to The Mirror last year, she explained: “Many people are scared to enjoy the outdoors, day trips, or holidays due to the unpredictability of their bowel movements. This fear can hold people back from living their lives to the fullest, creating a cycle of stress and gut issues that perpetuates the problem.” Gemma’s first tip is to start jotting down every time you suddenly need to use the loo. As you gather this data, you might spot common patterns – such as needing to go at certain times, after specific meals, or during high-stress periods. This not only helps you plan around your bowel movements but can also aid a doctor in making an official diagnosis.
When planning a trip or day out, scope out restaurants and other venues for their facilities when you first enter, and use online forums dedicated to rating the best public loos in London to help you find a restroom on the go.
A Can’t Wait Card is designed to be discreetly tucked away in a purse or wallet and can be shown to staff in shops, restaurants, and other venues so you can use their loo without having to explain your condition.
Unfortunately, those who suffer from bowel urgency need to be prepared for an emergency movement wherever they go. If you know you’ll be using public facilities, make sure you have handy wipes.
Invest in Postbiotics, produced by healthy bacteria in your gut, to help digest your food and create an environment conducive to good gut bacteria. This can be extremely beneficial in treating irritable gut symptoms such as inflammation, bloating, diarrhoea, and bowel urgency.
Gut Wealth capsules have garnered numerous positive reviews on the site. One satisfied customer stated: “I love Gut Wealth, tastes great, keeps bloating away, keeps you regular.” Another added: “An amazing product, the best I have tried!”
However, the product wasn’t a perfect fit for everyone. One user noted: “No trouble switching from the sachets to the capsules. Only comment would be that capsules are quite large to swallow, which might be difficult for some to manage – personally, not a problem.”