LUXE Serendipity magazine

With heady summer nights becoming a distant memory and a renewed focus on wellbeing for the winter months ahead, Yakult offered a fresh take on wellness, led by the gut experts for over 90 years 

Yakult, held the event in aid of Guts UK, the only UK charity funding research into the whole digestive system and every ticket sold supported Guts UK.

Dr Emily Prpa, PhD Nuition Scientist, explored what gut health really means, how it connects to hormones, mood, energy, and long-term wellbeing, and what simple daily habits can make a genuine difference. She was interviewed by London-based community builder and presenter Zoe Mallet, known for her engaging street interviews and collaborations with brands including Snapchat and Channel 4.

The morning kicked off at 8.30 with breakfast and an expert-led talk. The conversation then unfolded over build-your-own açaí bowls, gut-friendly smoothies, fresh juices, matcha, coffee and little bottles of Yakult.

Dr Emily Prpa said, “Long breakfasts have become the weekend ritual, and while they’re fun, this is a great moment to get gut curious. Recent research from Yakult found that four in five women in the UK want to know more about how their gut health can impact their overall wellbeing. However, there is still a significant lack of knowledge, with 86 per cent of the women surveyed having never heard of the gut-hormone axis. This event is part of our commitment to change that.”

She adds, Alongside delicious food in a stunning setting, we will be helping our audience understand what gut health really is, why it matters in daily life and how small, practical habits can make a real difference. We will also explore how gut health supports long-term wellbeing and healthy aging, so everyone leaves with something valuable they can actually use.”

Yakult was developed 90 years ago by the Japanese scientist Dr Shirota, who spent many years investigating the benefits of intestinal bacteria. In the 1930, he selected and cultivated a unique strain of lactic acid bacteria – L. casei Shirota. This friendly bacteria is scientifically proven to reach the gut alive and increase the bacteria in the gut!* 

In 1935, this bacteria was used to create the iconic fermented skimmed milk drink – Yakult. 

In the UK and Ireland, three Yakult products are available, all bursting with 20 billion of Yakult’s friendly bacteria. All are gluten-free, fat free and suitable for vegetarians. 

Yakult Original is the iconic fermented milk drink which has a hint of vanilla and lemon flavours.

Yakult Balance contains fewer calories and less sugar** and is rich in vitamin D***, which supports immunity and muscle & bone health. 

Yakult Plus Peach has a juicy peach flavour. It’s rich in vitamin C**** to support the immune system and help lower fatigue. It also contains fibre that feed the bacteria in the gut.

Today, more than 40 million Yakult products are consumed every day, in 40 countries and regions around the world. 

*Yakult’s bacteria L. casei Shirota, increase both the lactobacilli and bifidobacteria in the gut.

Yakult Balance contains 68% less sugar and 38% fewer calories than Yakult Original 

Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system and the maintenance of normal bones and muscle function. Each bottle of Yakult Balance accounts for 30% of the EU reference intake for vitamin D. Enjoy as part of a healthy balanced diet and lifestyle.

Vitamin C supports the normal functioning of the immune system and contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Each bottle of Yakult Plus Peach accounts for 30% of the EU reference intake for vitamin C. Enjoy as part of a healthy balanced diet and lifestyle. 

Guts UK is the national charity for the digestive system. Our mission is to improve the lives of the millions of people affected by digestive conditions.

Our work spans three main areas: providing expert information and support to people affected by digestive conditions and symptoms, delivering public education and awareness campaigns, and funding life-changing research into the whole digestive system. We are driven by our vision of a world where digestive conditions are better understood, better treated and everyone who lives with one gets the support they need.