KEEPING YOUR GUT HAPPY AND HEALTHY DURING TRAVEL

Travelling, though enjoyable, is really very stressful for both your mind and body. With all the organization and preparations, by the time you get to the day of your actual travel, you might not be feeling well at all. 

Travel stress is feeling anxious or pressured concerning traveling; these include feelings of being overwhelmed because of travel plans, culture shock, financial problems, language barriers, and unexpected situations. 

In a study by OnePoll, Americans experience 240 stressful travel experiences in a lifetime. 

Stress can cause digestive problems or an upset stomach, and the last thing you’d want is for you to keep going to the bathroom all the time. Any or all of the factors mentioned above can make you more prone to gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, constipation, gas pains, and nausea. It is NOT a good time to be experiencing these conditions.

Consider the following tips on how to deal with the problem:

Avoid overeating

We all know that vacationing also includes indulging yourself with new dishes. Even stress may make you overeat. However, overeating may cause your stomach to stretch and expand, pushing against your organs, and making you feel very uncomfortable. This discomfort can make you feel lazy, heavy, and sleepy. 

Hydrate Yourself          

Lack of water, especially if you are going to a place that’s hot and dry, may cause dehydration. Just ensure that the water you will be drinking is safe. Go for bottled water if you have your doubts and avoid putting ice cubes in your drink, especially in places where water is not safe. The bacteria in unsafe water may cause you to have diarrhea.

Stick to Food that is High in Fiber

To keep your digestive system working well, eat lots of high-fiber food. This will keep your bowel movements regular and prevent constipation or impacted stools. Eat as much fiber as you would when you are at home. These include fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and beans.

Constipation can make you feel uncomfortable, bloated, and pain in the stomach. You may also feel that you need to go to the bathroom all the time. 

Wash your Hand Properly

Do not neglect the habit of washing your hands even on a trip. This is to avoid bacteria and the spread of diseases. Wash with warm water and use a bar of soap or detergent. Rub your hands with soap for 20 seconds. Make sure to scrub every inch of your fingers up to your wrist.

Always Carry Medications with You

Always have medicines handy. For diarrhea, you can take loperamide. Antacids are a must for heartburn and gas pain. For mild diarrhea, you can take Pepto-Bismol. 

Do Not Ignore the Need to go to the Bathroom

Although using public toilets and shared hotel rooms are very uncomfortable, if you do need to do a bowel movement, then do so. Holding back will cause constipation which can eventually lead to diarrhea.

Hold Back on Sodas, Sugary Drinks, and Caffeine

Overdrinking soft drinks, coffee, and alcohol can irritate your gastrointestinal tract especially if you have a sensitive stomach. Coffee and alcohol can even speed up digestion and can cause diarrhea.

Make your vacation enjoyable by following these simple tips. You and your gut deserve a good holiday.