While many will be growing moustaches to raise awareness of men's mental and physical health during Movember, there’s another aspect of health that deserves attention: your gut.
Men are facing a health crisis, with an average life expectancy 4.5 years shorter than women’s—largely due to preventable causes [1]. These startling facts highlight the urgency for men to take charge of their health. It’s not just about raising awareness but taking meaningful steps towards better self-care.
At Bimuno, we believe gut health is one of the most overlooked areas of men’s well-being. Often called the “second brain,” your gut plays a huge role in influencing everything from digestion to mood. So, while you're shaping the perfect 'stache this Movember, don't forget to nurture your gut—it’s key to building a stronger, healthier you.
So, if you're taking part in Movember and reading this blog—or perhaps a friend or partner encouraging open conversations about our health—let’s dive into the importance of gut health and why it truly matters!
What are the main symptoms of poor gut health in men?
Did you know that 58% of adults feel embarrassed about their digestive symptoms? Even more surprising, 51% delay seeking help! [2]
This hesitation can leave many men unaware of what poor gut health truly looks and feels like, leading to potential issues being ignored. While men and women can share similar signs of an unhealthy gut, it’s super important for guys to pay attention to symptoms that are especially relevant to men, like:
- Skin woes: You might notice dryness, flakiness, or irritation popping up on your skin.
- Muscle troubles: If your gut isn't functioning well, it can tamper with your body’s ability to absorb nutrients for muscle repair and growth, leading to decreased muscle mass.
- Feeling wiped out: An imbalanced gut can mess with your sleep, leaving you feeling sluggish during the day.
- Weight changes: Whether it’s unexpected weight loss from poor nutrient absorption or weight gain from insulin resistance or appetite changes, an unhealthy gut can definitely throw your body out of whack.
- Irregular bowel habits: Discomfort like excessive wind, bloating, constipation, or diarrhoea often points to an imbalance in gut bacteria. If your bowel habits are all over the place, it’s a clear sign your gut needs some TLC.
Don’t ignore these signs; listening to your body and taking action is key to avoiding bigger issues down the line! As with all matters relating to health and wellness, a qualified healthcare professional, such as your GP, should always be the first port of call when seeing persistent or recurring symptoms.
Can men’s gut health change with age?
Simply put, yes! As we age, our gut microbiome can undergo changes influenced by various factors like diet, medication, and lifestyle choices. Also, nutrient absorption becomes trickier with age, even with a nutritious diet, leading to nutrient deficiencies. [3]
Embracing a diverse and balanced diet is essential to keeping your gut happy and healthy, especially as you navigate these changes! Want more tips on how to support your gut as you age? Check out our other gut-aging tips here.
The link between gut health and prostate health
Gut health is a fascinating area of study, and the scientific community is continually learning about how our gut bacteria interact with, or influence, various areas of the body outside of digestion. Of particular importance in terms of men’s health, this includes the prostate.
While it’s still an emerging area of study, scientists are exploring a relationship termed the ‘gut-prostate axis’. Research suggests a link between the gut microbiome and prostate health, and while further evidence is needed, the effects are believed to include reducing inflammation, supporting immune function, and influencing hormone levels, including androgens – a key hormone in maintaining prostate health.
As with all aspects of health, maintaining a healthy lifestyle—including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and good gut health—can be part of your overall wellness journey. However, if you have any concerns about prostate health, always speak with your healthcare provider, who can provide appropriate advice and guidance.
Connection of our gut and mental health
Around 12.5% of men in England are diagnosed with a common mental health disorder, with anxiety and depression leading the charge. Statistically, men are less likely to seek help compared to women, often because of…
- Societal expectations
- Toxic masculinity,
- Being expected to "stay strong or man up’
and more barriers.
The gut-brain axis—a bidirectional communication line between your gut and brain—plays a major role in shaping emotions, mood, and overall mental health. By understanding this connection, we can take real steps toward improving both gut and mental well-being. It’s time to break the cycle and start taking both mental health and gut health seriously!
Ever wonder where that ‘butterflies in the stomach’ feeling comes from when you're anxious? Or why you get ‘hangry’? Yep, you can thank your gut for that. So next time you're feeling a little off, maybe it's your gut’s way of saying, “Hey, I’m talking here!”
How can men’s gut health be improved?
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress can wreak havoc on gut health and lead to digestive issues. Try stress-reducing activities like mindfulness, meditation, exercise, or yoga to support both mental and gut well-being.
- Exercise Regularly: Staying active doesn’t just benefit your muscles—it’s great for digestion too! Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, to help keep your gut in top shape.
- Focus On A Balanced Diet: Your body needs a variety of nutrients to stay at its best, so always aim for a healthy, diverse and nourishing diet. A food-first approach to health should always be a priority!
- Prebiotic Supplements: Consider adding prebiotic supplements, like our award-winning gut sachets, which help feed our good gut bacteria – key to keeping a happy and healthy gut!
Remember, improving your gut health takes time, not a quick fix! You won't see results overnight, but small, consistent changes can make a big difference. Stick with it, and soon you'll notice improvements in your overall health.
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