P. Sze 
What a 2,000-Person Survey Reveals About Digestive Health in America
Gut Health Is More Important Than You Think
If you’ve ever dealt with uncomfortable bloating, unpredictable bathroom visits, or the nagging question of whether your gut issues are “normal,” you’re not alone. Digestive health is not just about food—it’s about how your body processes stress, sleep, and lifestyle. A nationwide survey of 2,001 U.S. adults conducted in June 2025 highlights just how common gut concerns really are and why paying attention to your digestive health can be life-changing.
For many women balancing busy work schedules, family life, and self-care, these findings hit close to home. What happens in the gut often affects mood, energy, and overall well-being.
Digestive Discomfort Is Widespread
The survey revealed that most Americans live with some form of digestive discomfort:
- 73% experience gas at least occasionally
- 52% report bloating
- A significant number have been diagnosed with chronic issues such as IBS, gastritis, or inflammatory bowel disease
These numbers show that stomach issues are far more common than most people talk about, making it all the more important to understand what’s going on inside.
Millennials Report the Most Gut Issues
Generational differences stood out in the survey. Millennials (ages 29–44) appear to have the most gut-related problems:
- Nearly 50% have been diagnosed with at least one gastrointestinal (GI) condition
- They are more likely to visit a doctor or use prescription medication for digestive concerns
- Millennials also tend to embrace wellness tools such as squatty stools, bidets, and flushable wipes
Meanwhile, older adults reported fewer GI diagnoses and seemed less likely to actively address gut issues with medical care or wellness habits.
The Stress–Digestion Connection
You’ve probably noticed that stress affects your stomach. The survey confirms this: younger adults, in particular, link their digestive changes to mental health.
- Over one-third said their bowel movements change when they feel anxious
- Many admitted to feeling anxiety about pooping itself
- Stress and gut discomfort create a vicious cycle, each feeding into the other
How the Survey Was Conducted
The study was conducted online between June 11–19, 2025. Researchers surveyed U.S. adults aged 18 and over, ensuring representation across age, race/ethnicity, and income. While the survey relied on self-reported data, its large sample size gives a reliable snapshot of how Americans are living with digestive issues today.
Signs of Healthy vs. Concerning Poop
Doctors often remind patients that stool appearance is a key health indicator. Healthy poop should be:
- Soft, smooth, and sausage-shaped
- Medium to dark brown in color
- Passed without straining
Potential red flags include:
- Blood or mucus in stool
- Pencil-thin bowel movements
- Sudden, unexplained changes in frequency or texture
When in doubt, it’s always safest to check with a healthcare provider.
Simple Lifestyle Steps for a Healthier Gut
You don’t always need complicated solutions to improve digestion. Start with these basics:
- Add more fiber through vegetables, fruits, beans, and whole grains
- Drink plenty of water to soften stool and promote bowel regularity
- Exercise daily to keep your digestive system moving
- Prioritize sleep—seven or more hours is ideal for gut recovery
- Use supplements cautiously and only with professional guidance
If you want more natural approaches, TCM practices like acupressure offer another layer of support.
TCM Wisdom: 3 Acupressure Points to Ease Bloating and Indigestion
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the spleen and stomach play central roles in digestion. Acupressure helps stimulate these energy pathways to restore balance and relieve discomfort. Here are three points you can try at home:
1. Hegu (LI 4) – Relieves Digestive Blockages
- Location: In the web between the thumb and index finger.
- Benefits: Encourages bowel regularity, reduces constipation, and calms abdominal discomfort.
- How to use: Press firmly with your opposite thumb for 30–60 seconds. Repeat 2–3 times a day.
2. Taibai (SP 3) – Strengthens the Spleen
- Location: On the inner foot, just behind the big toe joint.
- Benefits: Supports metabolism, reduces bloating, and improves food absorption.
- How to use: Massage in circular motions for 1–2 minutes on each foot daily.
3. Shangqiu (SP 5) – Harmonizes the Stomach
- Location: Below and slightly in front of the inner ankle bone.
- Benefits: Relieves indigestion, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
- How to use: Apply steady thumb pressure for 1–2 minutes on each foot.
If you’d like to expand your routine, we’ve created a detailed guide to acupressure for bloating and indigestion. It covers additional points to help you feel lighter and more comfortable after meals.
When to Seek Professional Help
Acupressure and lifestyle changes can go a long way in promoting digestive health, but they are not a substitute for medical care. If you experience blood in stool, unexplained weight loss, or persistent pain, consult a healthcare provider right away.
Your poop is more than just waste—it’s a vital signal about your health. Learning how to listen to it, and using both modern insights and TCM wisdom, can help you build a healthier gut and a stronger body.
Try our Anti-Aging Gua Sha Tool designed to bring out your skin’s natural glow.
Best Gua Sha Product- Anti-Aging: The tool is designed to target 11 specific aging signs such as wrinkles and sagging skin. By following the 7-step routine, users can improve skin firmness and reduce fine lines naturally.
- Enhances Skincare Routine: It works effectively with serums and lotions, boosting absorption and efficacy of skincare products.
- Visible Skin Improvement: Users can expect a smoother complexion, reduced puffiness, and a more youthful appearance.
