Over 80 per cent urban Indians see themselves vulnerable to lifestyle diseases: Survey

While 4 in 5 believe lifestyle diseases could originate in the gut, 7 in 10 people suffer from chronic digestive issues

Country Delight in partnership with Indian Dietetic Association, Mumbai recently conducted a survey to understand the digestive health of Urban Indians and assess their perception of comorbidities associated with gut health. The ‘Gut Health Survey’ was conducted online using YouGov’s India panel, and responses were collected from 2017 respondents in Delhi NCR, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. People from the age group of 25-50 years were surveyed 50 per cent of the respondents were males and 50 per cent were females.

The survey revealed that 7 out of every 10 people experience digestive or gut health issues, with 59 per cent complaining every week and 12 per cent suffering daily. 80 per cent consumers believe that digestive/gut health issues could lead to long-term lifestyle diseases. Interestingly, over 60 per cent consumers have changed their diet as a preventive measure against lifestyle diseases.

The Gut-Health survey highlighted that certain factors may lead to poor gut health. Approximately 63 per cent of respondents said they consume junk or processed or packaged food every week, and gastric issues were recorded amongst 68 per cent of them. 66 per cent of the respondents believe that fast/junk food or chemically processed foods are the culprits behind digestive or gut issues.

The survey further highlighted factors that may lead to poor gut health. In terms of the gut-brain connection, 59 per cent of consumers who suffer from digestive/gut health issues every week also experienced certain mental health challenges such as anxiety, poor memory, mood swings, and lack of energy. Women, in particular, face several health concerns related to lack of energy, mood swings, feeling low, and anxiety. A lack of energy is the most reported issue among women, with 41 per cent of respondents reporting experiencing it regularly. Mood swings are also a prevalent concern, with 40 per cent of respondents reporting experiencing them regularly. Feeling low is another common issue, with 39 per cent of respondents reporting it, followed by anxiety, which 34 per cent of respondents reported experiencing on a regular basis.

In light of the same more and more people (67 per cent) are changing their lifestyle, including increasing physical activity, changing dietary habits, and switching to chemically-free, fresh dairy products. Overall, 6 out of 10 people look for chemical-free alternatives for their daily diet with 40 per cent believing that switching to chemically free natural foods and fresh dairy products can help prevent digestive or gut health issues. Sixty percent of people felt that their diet played an important role in preventing lifestyle diseases or digestive issues, so they changed their diet in the last few years

“Country Delight along with IDA Mumbai Chapter is committed to being a leader in the digestive health space. It is disheartening to note that major cities of our country are going through issues of stress, poor quality of sleep, and anxiety on a regular basis. These problems can potentially lead to greater adverse medical conditions in the future. The survey is an attempt to highlight the various health-related problems people are confronted with today. The survey also intends to be a fulcrum around which better health awareness initiatives and policies can be framed in the larger interest of our society,” said Chakradhar Gade, Co-founder and CEO, Country Delight

“Gut-Health survey highlights the significant prevalence of digestive health issues, especially in urban population. It’s mostly due to poor dietary and lifestyle habits. A strong gut is the cornerstone of a well-functioning immune system and also supports mental health. Switching to natural whole foods, avoiding processed ingredients, including physical activity are now essential to maintaining a balanced gut in order to enjoy a better quality of life”, said Naaznin Husein, National Executive Committee Member- IDA & Ex-President IDA Mumbai chapter

In conclusion, the survey findings emphasise the importance of a healthy lifestyle and underscore the need to of mindful dietary and lifestyle choices. By making simple changes to their daily habits, people can safeguard their gut health and maintain overall well-being.