From years of bloating to finding her confidence: Vanessa's gut story

What was life like before you started taking Symprove? 

"Painful and frustrating. There have been many stages in my life where my gut health has been an issue – before I knew what gut health was! When I was younger, I used to suffer with painful bloating every day which made me really self-conscious – I remember being asked if I was pregnant in my early 20’s because I was that bloated! When I was in University, I used to get what I nicknamed my “going out belly” where I would have fully body shivers and then spend most of the night back and forth to the toilet. When I started having my kids, I ended up suffering with adult acne for years which again, really affected my self-confidence! Then I went through a period of years where I would get horrific recurrent UTI’s which I was constantly on antibiotics for.  All of this went on for years and at the time, I had no idea how to fix any of it." 

How long had you been dealing with your gut issue before you found us? 

"YEARS!  From when I was a teenager until around 30.  I used to go back and forth to the doctor in my late teens – early 20’s to try and find answers but was very much left to get on with it." 

What had you already tried that didn't work? 

"I didn’t have any knowledge on health and wellness at that stage in my life, so I used to try and cut out food groups, especially dairy, as it seemed to be a trigger at the time.  Nothing seemed to “fix” the issues, though." 

How did your gut issues affect your day-to-day life: work, socialising, travel? 

"I struggled with socialising with friends – going out for meals or nights out was always a worry, my energy levels were low, I used to have to naps most days. I was very self-conscious of my skin. When I went through the years of UTI’s, I was scared to travel in case it happened while I was away – I was constantly wiped out from the antibiotics.  I really didn’t feel great in myself for a long time!" 

What did a "bad day" look like for you? 

"Being asked if I was pregnant because my stomach was so bloated. I could have cried, and that’s stayed with me all these years!" 

How did you first hear about Symprove? 

"I saw Deliciously Ella post about it on Instagram about 6 years ago." 

What made you choose Symprove over other options? 

"The science!!  I was originally giving my son a powdered probiotic but after researching more into Symprove, and learning about it’s unique water base – I thought, if I’m going to spend my money on something, it needs to be something that actually works!" 

Do you remember your first shot? What was that morning like? 

"I was so excited to try it! I felt like I had done something positive for my own gut health." 

How long was it before you felt a difference? 

"I would say I started to notice quiet changes within about 6 weeks." 

How has it fitted into your daily routine? 

"It’s a non-negotiable for me now. I will not miss a day. I even take it on holiday with me!" 

Is there a moment you specifically remember thinking "this is working"? 

"There has been a few “lightbulb” moments over the years, from the reduction in bloating, to my skin healing, brighter energy, but I remember when I realised I hadn’t had a UTI, or antibiotics, in over a year and just being so happy and grateful!" 

What does a normal day look like for you now, compared to before? 

"I like to get up early before the kids, Symprove first – always! Then prioritising a breakfast focusing on protein and fibre to properly fuel me, then it’s drop the kids off, gym and work." 

Has anything changed for you outside of your gut: energy, mood, sleep, skin?  

"My energy levels are on another level compared to years ago!  My skin is completely different, don’t get me wrong, I will still get a few hormonal spots but nothing like how it was! I normally safely bypass the usual coughs and colds through the winter months too!" 

Why do you talk about Symprove to other people? 

"Because I genuinely believe it has been life changing for me, it’s brought so much benefit to my family, and I truly believe it can help other people too." 

What's the one thing you'd tell your past self? 

"“You’re not alone!” I’d also give her a hug, pour her a Symprove, and make her a fibre-rich meal." 

What's your go-to Symprove routine: time of day, flavour, ritual around it? 

"First thing when I wake up, downstairs, shot of Symprove from the fridge then off to get ready for the day. I’ll always and forever be an Original girl but the kids love Pineapple!" 

Finish the sentence: "Since starting Symprove, I've finally been able to..." 

"Live and enjoy life again!" 

Thank you so much, Vanessa for sharing your story.