MORE than half of people in the South West have experienced persistent gut problems, a poll suggests.

The research, conducted for Love Your Gut Week, an initiative from a group of digestive health charities and organisations including yoghurt drink firm Yakult, said that a third of people had not sought professional medical help.

Polling uncovered that the three most common gut problems experienced by people were diarrhoea, constipation and heart burn.

Worryingly, while just one in 10 people in the South West have suffered from chronic stomach pain, a third of those polled didn't know that you should seek medical advice if you find blood in your stool.

Dr Joan Ransley, nutritionist on the campaign, said: “This research shows that significant numbers of people experience problems with their gut and it can have a huge impact on people’s lives.

"Digestive health is something we all need to take seriously.

"Listening to your gut can really make a difference to your overall wellbeing, from understanding the steps you can take to keep your gut healthy, to being aware of when you should see a doctor."

For more about gut health, visit: www.loveyourgut.com. 

Love Your Gut Week runs until September 10.