Yorkshire has been revealed to have the UK's worst gut health habits, with residents consuming the lowest amounts of essential foods.

A survey of 2,000 people has exposed the regions with the best and worst gut health habits, highlighting significant disparities across the country.

The results showed that one in five people in Wales experience bloating several times a week, while 28% of those in the West Midlands reported never struggling with the issue.

Residents of the North East were found to be the most gassy, with 26% experiencing daily discomfort - more than double the number of those in Scotland.

The study, commissioned by Yakult in collaboration with Professor Glenn Gibson from Reading University, highlights the importance of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle in maintaining a healthy gut.

Professor Gibson noted: "It's fascinating to see how diets and daily habits vary so much across the UK."

"What contributes to a healthy gut can often be forgotten or misunderstood as many people just associate this with eating lots of fibre but, in truth, every type of food group plays a part."

"Having regular bowel movements and getting the right amount and quality of sleep are also other things that help maintain a healthy gut and overall lifestyle."

Professor Gibson has emphasised the significance of a good night's sleep, stating: "Getting less than the recommended 7-9 hours of quality sleep not only leaves us tired, but also disrupts our body's natural rhythm, impacting the bacteria in our gut this being a very active community of microbes that has profound impacts upon our overall health and wellbeing."

"Disturbances in sleep patterns can adversely affect the gut microbiota, which could hamper digestive health."

The study revealed that only 36% of Britons rated their overall gut health as 'average', with the typical person consuming four portions of fruit or vegetables daily.

However, a mere 35% included nuts in their daily diet, and when it came to hydration, 35% of those surveyed via OnePoll.com confessed to not drinking enough fluids.

Professor Gibson highlighted the benefits of a colourful diet for gut health: "Fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, beans, chickpeas, lentils, herbs and spices helps to improve gut microbiota - which is in turn essential for supporting good gut (and overall) health."

"It is also worth adding fermented foods into your diet as well as keeping hydrated as water is essential and will improve almost every bodily process including digestion."

"Enough water intake is crucial to help food move effectively through the digestive system, helping to prevent constipation and facilitate nutrient availability."

A candid 37% of Brits admitted to not meeting the recommended daily exercise quota of 30 minutes, with 35% confessing to spending extended periods either sitting or lying down.

Professor Gibson emphasised the importance of physical activity for digestive health, stating: "Exercise can help stimulate the digestive system promoting more efficient digestion and help alleviate symptoms like bloating and constipation."

He added that just half an hour a day can make a difference and suggested incorporating it into everyday activities such as walking, cleaning or gardening.

A spokesperson for Yakult highlighted the importance of gut health, saying: "Maintaining good gut health is essential to overall well-being, as it impacts everything from digestion and nutrient absorption to immune function and even mental health."

They continued: "By focusing on a diet rich in fibre, fermented foods, and hydration, people can support their gut microbiome and enjoy better energy, mood, and long-term health."

"We are encouraging the nation to make small changes which can have a powerful influence on gut health and overall wellbeing," they concluded.