STAR Discount Chemist has launched a new initiative - "It takes guts to talk guts" - encouraging Australians to stop dismissing ongoing symptoms and seek trusted, personalised advice.
Bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, persistent indigestion, nausea and irregularity are among the most common gut health symptoms people experience, yet many dismiss them as "normal" or try to manage them without seeking advice from a healthcare professional.
"Many people are living with ongoing bloating, discomfort, fatigue or skin issues without realising their gut could be playing a role," said Star Pharmacy Group chief pharmacist, Shannon Hewitt.
"These concerns are common, but they shouldn't simply be dismissed," Hewitt explained.
She noted that gut health not only plays a key role in digestion, but is also linked with immunity, energy, mood and skin concerns.
However, many Australians continue to treat surface symptoms through trial and error without understanding what may be contributing to them.
"Medications, diet, stress levels and lifestyle all play a role," Hewitt said.
"A simple conversation can help translate symptoms into clear next steps and, where appropriate, we may guide someone to seek further advice from their medical practitioner," she stated.
Star Pharmacy Group CEO, David Clark, said the campaign reflects the group's ongoing commitment to accessible healthcare within local communities.
"Our pharmacies are often the first place people turn to when they have questions about their health," Clark said.
"We want Australians to feel comfortable talking about gut health - it takes guts to start that conversation, but it can make a meaningful difference to overall wellbeing," he concluded. KB
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 19 Mar 26
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