Guts UK and Imodium®: Breaking the poo taboo
There's a taboo surrounding our poo and it's holding us back. Find out more about our partnership with Imodium and how we're working together to tackle the stigma surrounding out guts and get people talking.
The average person spends 1.5 years of their life sitting on the toilet, and yet talking about bowel movements is still considered taboo by many¹. It’s a topic that can make anyone feel a bit awkward, but trust us, you’re not alone. In fact, 51% of people wait over six months before seeking help for their digestive symptoms. That’s a long time to be dealing with something that could have a solution.
By breaking the ‘poo taboo’, we can create a more open and supportive community where no one has to suffer in silence. That’s why Imodium® and Guts UK have joined forces; to provide information, debunk myths, and help you know what’s normal and when to seek help.
Why We Need to Break the Silence
Open dialogue around the symptoms we experience is more than just a conversation; it’s a powerful tool for reducing the stigma surrounding digestive health. When people feel comfortable discussing their symptoms, they are more likely to seek the help they need.
Sharing what you’re feeling and experiencing with trusted family members, friends and healthcare professionals can lead to fast diagnosis and better management of digestive symptoms and conditions, ultimately improving your quality of life.
And let’s not forget the power of personal stories. When you open up about your own gut health journey, you’re not just helping yourself—you’re reaching out a hand to someone who might be struggling in silence. By sharing your experiences, you’re breaking down barriers and creating a supportive community where everyone feels a little less alone and a lot more understood.
Our annual #GUTSelfie campaign is a brilliant way to provoke important conversations about digestive health. On the last Sunday in June, hundreds of people come together on Instagram to share their personal experiences and raise vital awareness of the impact that digestive conditions and symptoms have on their daily lives.
Tackling Misconceptions and Misinformation about Gut Health
Gut health information can be overwhelming, and misconceptions can spread quickly, especially on social media. Imodium surveyed 2000 adults in the UK who suffer from gut health issues and found that 40% of adults turn to unqualified influencers for health tips². Furthermore, an MHP poll found that one in five rarely or never fact-check what they read³. It’s therefore crucial to rely on healthcare professionals, or trusted charities like Guts UK for your information.
When researching gut health, check who shared the information and when – make sure what you’re reading isn’t outdated and has been shared by a credible source. Be wary of overly optimistic claims too, such as ‘miracle cures’. By following these tips, you’re making sure that the information you’re digesting is accurate and evidence-based, and that’s a big win for your gut and overall health. Find out more here.
Know your normal
Understanding your body’s regular rhythm is key to spotting issues. Your gut is unique, and what’s normal for you might not be for others. Our online Poo-torial tool is a valuable resource for familiarising yourself with different bowel movements and their meanings. Keeping a symptom diary, like Imodium®’s Gut2know® app can help you track changes and identify patterns too.
Knowing your ‘normal’ is crucial, but it’s equally important to recognise when changes occur. If you experience a sudden change in bowel habits or have diarrhoea for more than seven days, contact your GP or call 111. Similarly, if you suspect food poisoning and your symptoms persist beyond seven days, or if you notice blood in your stool or severe and constant abdominal pain accompanied by a high fever, you should immediately seek medical attention.
A Gutsy Partnership
Imodium® and Guts UK are teaming up for the third year in a row, to transform the way we all think about gut health and digestive wellbeing. You might spot us on social media, in your local pharmacy and in other locations. In 2025, we’re really focusing on raising awareness with healthcare professionals. The more they understand what information and support is available for patients, the better equipped they are to offer the kind of support and advice that truly makes a difference.
We want to shatter these misconceptions and make gut health a regular topic of conversation. With Imodium® by our side, we can share the right knowledge and support, to give our digestive systems the care they deserve.
Further resources
Check out our downloadable resources to learn more about digestive health myths and get helpful hints and tips on better managing common digestive symptoms:
Johnson & Johnson Limited will donate £20,000 to Guts UK Charity (1137029) in relation to this 2025 charitable campaign and are working collaboratively with the charity to raise awareness, including creation of a media campaign and patient education materials.
IMODIUM® Instants contain loperamide hydrochloride. For acute diarrhoea (aged 12+) and for medically diagnosed IBS diarrhoea (aged 18+). IMODIUM® Dual Action Relief Tablets. For acute diarrhoea and its gas-related symptoms (aged 12+). Always read the label.
References:
- ¹https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/how-many-hours-brits-spend-on-the-toilet_uk_60acdff6e4b0d56a83ee6ee5
- ²Imodium® via OnePoll, 2023. 2,000 UK Adults.
- ³https://www.patients-association.org.uk/finding-trustworthy-information-online