Over half of adults have issues with their gut health, however many are not seeking help for this, a new survey has found.

According to the findings, 56% of people have gut health issues but among these, 21% have not discussed this with a healthcare professional, while 22% have not even discussed it with those closest to them.

Common complaints related to the gut include abdominal pain before or after meals, diarrhoea, constipation, heartburn, bloating, loss of appetite and bleeding when you pass a stool.

While people may suffer with these symptoms from time to time as a result of, for example, stress, if such symptoms persist for more than a few days for no obvious reason, you are advised to contact your GP.

This latest survey was commissioned to highlight Love Your Gut Week (September 21-27). This is an initiative of Yakult that runs in Ireland and the UK, and is supported by the Irish Society for Colitis & Crohn's Disease, the Irish Nutrition & Dietetic Institute and the Irish Practice Nurses Association.

This annual event aims to raise awareness of the importance of gut health.

The survey noted that over 80% of people would rather talk about money, debt or relationships than discuss their gut health, suggesting a high degree of embarrassment and stigma associated with it.

However, the survey also found that among those who did discuss the issue with someone, many felt less worried or stressed about it, and 40% were prompted to book a medical appointment as a result of talking about their problem with friends or family.

People are being actively encouraged to discuss their gut health worries with loved ones or healthcare professionals during Love Your Gut Week.

"Talking about your problems puts the other people in your life in the picture, and this is no different for digestive issues. Dealing with digestive problems alone can be stressful and isolating. Once your partner, friend or co-worker knows the challenges you face, you can give them the opportunity not only to understand your situation, but also to support you," commented UK dietitian, Jo Travers.

The survey involved 1,050 people in Ireland and the UK and was carried out in July.

For more information on gut health and Love Your Gut Week, click here.