Does Summer Stress Make Your Tummy Tumble?

Does Summer Stress Make Your Tummy Tumble?

(ARA) - A recent survey of 500 female digestive upset sufferers found nearly one in five say they dread the summer season due to their episodic digestive upset. Nearly all of those surveyed (91 percent) reported missing some summer activities, such as barbecues and picnics, social get-togethers, outdoor events or concerts and going to the beach or pool. For the millions of Americans who suffer from digestive upset, the anxiety associated with summer activities can worsen their pain and discomfort.

"Many Americans occasionally suffer from constipation, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, urgency, gas or bloating," says Dr. Eamonn Quigley, professor of medicine and human physiology at the Cork University Hospital in Cork, Ireland. "For many people, traveling is a source of heightened stress, which can worsen these symptoms. Probiotics may offer relief by restoring normal digestive health."

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help with digestion and establish a balance of healthy bacteria in the gut. However, not all probiotics are created equal. Bifantis (Bifidobacterium infantis 35624), which is found in Align, is the only probiotic strain backed by clinical data to help manage a full range of digestive upset. Align, when taken daily, promotes and maintains a strong, healthy and balanced digestive system.* *

"Because the benefits of probiotic bacteria are strain specific, all probiotics should be independently tested and evaluated in clinical trials, like Bifantis has been," says Dr. Quigley. "Consumers should know how to read a probiotic label and should expect all relevant information to be provided when shopping for a probiotic product." When shopping for a probiotic product, consumers should ensure the label includes all of the following information:

* Actual strain(s) name and the quantity of probiotic bacteria for each strain listed. The number of probiotic bacteria needed to be effective is strain- and product-form specific; more is not necessarily better.

* "Best used by" date and a batch or lot code. The code printed on an individual container that serves as a reference number for the plant to track production information.

* Company information. Look for products manufactured by well-trusted companies that have a history of good clinical evidence and support for their product. Also look for corporate contact details like a Web site or a toll-free number.

* Dosing information, directions for use and storage. Many products have complicated dosing regimens or directions, and the suggested storage conditions vary based on probiotic form and stability.

* Expectations. Does the label tell you what to expect from product use?

* Facts. The Supplement Facts that includes the nutritional and supplement information.

Even when not experiencing the ups and downs of digestive imbalance, many people may benefit from taking Align to promote a balanced digestive system and manage episodic digestive upsets such as constipation, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, urgency, gas or bloating.

"As a sufferer of episodic digestive upset, I felt imprisoned by my condition," says Megan Molloy. "I organized activities, travel routes and vacations around my condition and constantly worried about having an episode. Now that I'm taking Align, digestive upset is no longer a significant part of my life."

For more information or to find out where to purchase Align go to www.AlignGI.com or call (800) 208-0112.

Courtesy of ARAcontent