World digestive health day: your diet and gut health 2016

Published: 27-May-2016

Scientific studies have shown that feeding the good bacteria inside the gut with prebiotic chicory root fibre encourages the bacteria to grow and support digestive health

This year’s 'your diet and gut health' campaign for World Digestive Health Day, sponsored by the World Gastroenterology Organisation, is being used to highlight the role of food on the gut, with a particular focus on food intolerances and allergies.

The campaign comes at a time when consumers are increasingly choosing to treat digestive health issues through dietary changes rather than just medication, and this presents the food industry with significant opportunities.

 

With food intolerances now reported to be extremely common, affecting up to 40% of individuals who suffer symptoms similar to those associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and non-coeliac sensitivity possibly affecting more than 10% of the population, it is no wonder that more and more consumers are making the link between wellness and gut health.

In fact, a recent BENEO consumer study found that ‘feeling good’ and ‘contributing to overall health’ were ranked among the main reasons for more than two thirds of consumers choosing foods that support digestive health.

More than 150 qualitative scientific studies have shown that feeding the good bacteria inside the gut with prebiotic chicory root fibre encourages the bacteria to grow and support digestive health, as well as other health related aspects, in a natural way.

Prebiotic supplementation, for example, has recently been linked to allergy prevention in not-exclusively breastfed infants. It has been advocated as a potential preventive invention for allergic diseases because the modulated microflora influences immunologic and inflammatory systemic responses, as evaluated by the World Allergy Organization (WAO).

Food and drink manufacturers who can offer consumers attractive products that promote overall well-being by supporting a balanced digestive system through a healthy gut microflora look set for success. With BENEO’s exclusive health claim confirming that chicory root inulin promotes digestive health by supporting regularity, manufacturers can now support consumers in choosing food that contributes to their overall well-being. 'We, as an industry, have the opportunity to promote wellness from inside, so why not embrace it with open arms?' says Anke Sentko, Vice President Regulatory Affairs and Nutrition Communication at BENEO.

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