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
77%
of expats reported that their digestive symptoms negatively affect their quality of life
42%
of expats have stated that their gut health has become more important to them since moving abroad, reflecting a heightened awareness of well-being
46%
of expats experience stress-related stomach problems
12%
of expats follow a specialised diet to address gut health concerns, despite widespread gut health issues
10%
of expats described the task of sourcing familiar foods as ‘very difficult or impossible’ in their new location
Expats report eating more of every type of food group in their home country than their resident country, except one – processed and convenience foods.
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.
Diversify diet: Include a variety of colorful foods for a range of nutrients.
Incorporate fermented foods: Consume yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut for probiotics.
Lifestyle Modifications
Manage stress levels: Practice mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and regular exercise.
Prioritise sleep: Establish a consistent sleep schedule and create a conducive sleep environment.
Increasing exercise: Incorporate regular physical activity into daily routines.
Mindful Eating Practices
Adopt mindful eating: Slow down during meals and pay attention to hunger and fullness cues.
Avoid overeating: Practice portion control to prevent discomfort.
Gut Health Supplements
Consider probiotics: Explore probiotic supplements or probiotic-rich foods to support gut health.
Consult healthcare professionals: Seek advice from nutritionists or gastroenterologists for personalised guidance.
Cultural Adaptation
Adaptation tips: Find alternatives to familiar foods and seek community support for cultural adjustments.