The Expat Gut Health Survey: How Symptoms Can Impact Life Abroad
Expats are experiencing digestive problems that negatively impact their new life abroad, according to new gut health research - This article is part of Allianz Care’s Expat Gut Health Survey
The COVID-19 pandemic has sparked a global focus on health, bringing gut health into the spotlight. Interest has surged, with #guthealth videos on TikTok reaching 4.7 billion views. Despite this trend, misinformation abounds, complicating consumers' search for reliable advice.
The gut health industry is on the rise, projected to reach $89.9 billion by 2030. However, a recent Ipsos poll reveals that many Americans lack understanding of the gut microbiome's impact on health. What’s more, 1 in 5 of those surveyed felt they have tried many things to improve their gut health but are now at a ‘dead end’.
Key Insights
Allianz Care's survey reveals expat gut health trends
Our new report in collaboration with Dentsu reveals the impact of gut health on expats, from access to nutritious foods to increased symptoms of poor gut health. Our Expat Gut Health Survey, which surveyed over 3000 expats globally, highlights key concerns and changes in gut health.
Moving abroad often triggers significant changes in lifestyle, especially in dietary and health habits. Many expats undergo shifts in gut health and digestion due to varied ingredients and increased reliance on dining out.
Common symptoms include bloating, diarrhea, constipation, stress-related stomach issues, weight gain, and more frequent colds. Furthermore, access to healthy foods has diminished, prompting many expats to resort to increased consumption of fast food and processed options.
Gut Healthy Recommendations
Many of the results in our Expat Gut Health Survey report point to the need for more comprehensive education on the microbiome and for better diet and lifestyle choices for optimum gut health.
Nutritionist Eli Brecher makes a number of recommendations for our customers to improve their gut health, these include:
Dietary changes
Increase fibre intake: Consume more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
Lifestyle Modifications
Manage stress levels: Practice mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and regular exercise.
Mindful Eating Practices
Adopt mindful eating: Slow down during meals and pay attention to hunger and fullness cues.
Gut Health Supplements
Consider probiotics: Explore probiotic supplements or probiotic-rich foods to support gut health.
Cultural Adaptation
Adaptation tips: Find alternatives to familiar foods and seek community support for cultural adjustments.