A new study from Optibac Probiotics has revealed Brits only feel their best for 13 days a month. The survey of 2,000 adults, commissioned by the UK's No.1 bestselling brand of friendly bacteria supplements^, found most of us only feel in good health 42% of the time – the equivalent of just 152 days a year. The rest of the time is spent with various ailments including colds, poor sleep, stress and digestive issues. In fact, during the winter months, 31% of us constantly feel run down with colds, coughs and sore throats.

Overlooked secret to improved immunity and overall wellbeing 

The solution to much of the nation's suffering lies in improving gut health. Just one reason why is because up to 70% of the immune system resides in the gut. Dr Kate Steed, gut microbiologist at Optibac explains:  

“Our study found that 31% of people were unaware of the link between good gut health and their immune system, and that's something we're on a mission to change. You have 40 trillion microbes in your gut which form an inner army that help protect against bad bacteria and other pathogens invading your immune system. The healthier the gut, the stronger the army. 

“This is just one example of how gut health goes beyond solving more than digestive issues; in fact, scientific research shows nearly every health condition seen today is associated with the gut microbiome. So whether you're sick of feeling sick, suffer from low mental health or you're done letting digestive issues impact your life, supporting gut health with friendly bacteria could help you feel brighter and improve your overall wellbeing.”  

Home remedies vs. Friendly bacteria 

When it comes to beating cold and flu season, the nation has tried all sorts of solutions from home remedies to over-the-counter medicines: 

• More than a quarter (27%) had tried eating more fruit and vegetables 

• 19% had gargled with salt water  

• 1 in 10 had tried drinking ginger tea for congestion 

• Over a quarter (26%) turn to Vitamin D 
• 19% put their trust in a hearty chicken soup to deal with colds 

Other home remedies cited by Brits for tackling colds included eating more garlic, elderberry syrup and simply resting as much as possible. However, just 8% of the nation had thought to try taking probiotics as a means of defence against colds though. Dr Kate Steed at Optibac explained the science behind staying one step ahead this cold and flu season: 

“There are lots of ways we try to combat and limit seasonal bugs, but unfortunately some of these remedies fail to support the gut which houses so many of our immune cells. What really stood out to me in the survey as a positive is that over 1 in 4 people took Vitamin D supplements to fend off colds. This is promising as the NHS recommends we all supplement with Vitamin D over winter. However, it's important to remember the small intestine is the primary site for absorption of this vitamin! Therefore, taking care of your gut health with friendly bacteria encourages efficient absorption of nutrients from food, along with any minerals and vitamins you're taking in supplement form.”  

Nation seeks immune system boost

With so few days spent feeling good, it's no surprise that 72% of the nation are interested in boosting their immune system, so they can live life to the fullest (60 per cent), to be in good health for the family (44 per cent) and because they have simply had enough of catching coughs and colds (26 per cent).

Trusted friendly bacteria to help you feel your best  

Optibac Probiotics is the UK & Ireland's No.1 bestselling^ and most recommended† brand of friendly bacteria supplements. Using only the world's most researched strains of friendly bacteria, the brand has been pioneering probiotics for 20 years by prioritising gold-standard science and natural ingredients.  

Optibac Gut Health Gummies have been formulated especially to support daily gut and immune health. An easy 5-in-1 supplement containing: Friendly bacteria, your daily intake of Vitamin D3 & Zinc to maintain immunity, Calcium to support digestion and prebiotic FOS fibres which increase natural gut bacteria. Contains the highly researched probiotic strain, Bacillus coagulans Unique IS-2, scientifically studied in hundreds of people in gold-standard trials and shown to reach the gut alive. Gut Health Gummies are vegan, gluten-free and naturally delicious; their sweetness comes from real fruit purees with absolutely no added sugar, artificial sweeteners, preservatives or colourings. Finally, not only are they good for you, they're good for the planet. Housed in a home-compostable inner pouch made from plant fibres and recyclable carton, Gut Health Gummies is 100% plastic free. 
RRP: £12.99 for 30 gummies 

Optibac Every Day EXTRA is an advanced digestive supplement, proven to reach the gut alive and support digestive health. Expertly formulated with high-quality probiotic strains, shown to support digestion, occasional bloating, immune and skin health, energy levels and wellbeing. Each easy-to-take capsule contains four extensively researched strains of friendly bacteria which naturally occur in the digestive tract. The probiotic strain combination includes Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM®, clinically trialled and shown to support immune health and overall digestion. The prebiotic-free formula is particularly suitable for those looking for a probiotic without added prebiotics, such as IBS sufferers.  
RRP: £25.99 for 30 capsules 

ENDS

References: 

Survey conducted by OnePoll in September 2024, sample size: 2000 UK adults.

^ Bestselling brand of friendly bacteria supplements Volume & value, Circana 02/2024. 

†Optibac is the brand of friendly bacteria supplements most recommended by UK consumers. See website T&Cs for survey details, 1,000 people, November 2023.