Awareness and Attitudes of Gut Health, Probiotics and Prebiotics in Australian Adults

Abstract

The awareness of and attitudes toward gut health, probiotics, prebiotics and factors associated with probiotics use in Australian adults have been explored in a cross-sectional study using CQUniversity’s National Social Survey (N = 1,265; 667 females). 58.9% of the participants were probiotics users, who were most commonly identified as female, younger, more educated (Ps < 0.05), with a higher awareness of gut health, and overall healthier lifestyle behaviors (fruits intake, activity, alcohol intake risk) compared to non-users. Maintaining health was the main reason for use. Many (59%) non-users reported a willingness to try probiotics, but only if recommended by a health professional. Probiotics use was associated with awareness of probiotic (odds ratio (OR): 2.02, p < 0.001) and prebiotic (OR:1.59, p = 0.003) terms, natural source of probiotics (OR:2.38, p < 0.001), recommended fruit serves (OR:1.32, p = 0.001), and alcohol score (OR:0.95, p = 0.036). Overall, those who had a healthier lifestyle and better understanding of gut health and probiotics were more likely to use probiotics. Education on gut health and probiotics from health professionals may improve probiotic use, especially in populations that are likely to benefit the most, including those with a specific condition or poor lifestyle.

Keywords:

• attitude
• gut flora
• gut health
• knowledge
• prebiotics
• probiotics

Declaration of interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the article.

Additional information

Funding

The funding and platform to complete this study is provided by the Population Research Laboratory, Central Queensland University.

Notes on contributors

Saman Khalesi, PhD

Dr Saman Khalesi is a Senior Lecturer and Discipline Lead in Nutrition at School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, CQUniversity, and Postdoctoral fellow of the National Heart Foundation Australia. His research interests are functional foods and dietary behaviors, and their roles on physical and mental health.

Corneel Vandelanotte, PhD

Prof Corneel Vandelanotte is the Physical Activity Research Group lead at the Central Queensland University. He has a population-based approach to health behaviors. He has received a number of prestigious national fellowship and grants and leading the world renowned 10,000 Steps Australia program.

Tanya Thwaite, BSc

Tanya Thwaite has studied psychology and nutrition and is a research worker for the School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences at CQUniversity Australia. Her research interests are lifestyle behaviors and their role in mental health and well-being.

Alex M. T. Russell, PhD

Dr Alex M. T. Russell is a Senior Postdoctoral Fellow in the Experimental Gambling Research Laboratory at CQUniversity. He has conducted research in a broad range of human behavior and gambling-related fields.

Drew Dawson, PhD

Prof Drew Dawson is the director of internationally recognized Appleton Institute. He is nationally and internationally recognized for his contributions to the scientific community and industry in the areas of human behavior, industrial relations negotiations, and health and well-being.

Susan L. Williams, PhD

Dr Susan L. Williams is Senior Lecturer in Nutrition and a Public Health Nutritionist. She has a strong belief in translational research and understanding how to bridge the gap between nutrition research and the practice of nutrition in our communities. Her research interests include behavioral nutrition in relation to food choices, and health and food/nutrition literacy.