Going on holidays is great, but sometimes a stomach upset can let you down. Due to the change in food, water, or just plain stress, you might not feel 100% when you’re on holidays, but there are some treatments and steps you can take to get relief while travelling and avoid it in the first place.
Around 30 to 50 per cent of travellers experience some form of stomach upset, such as diarrhoea, cramps, nausea, or constipation. There are some ways to prevent suffering, and steps to take if you’re unlucky enough to be afflicted.
- Wash your hands
Good hygiene can help prevent the spread of bacteria, and reduce your risk of traveller’s diarrhoea. Use soap and water after going to the toilet, and before eating or preparing food.
- Be water aware
One of the most common causes of traveller’s tummy is water contaminated with infected faeces. To avoid this, if you’re not sure of the origination of the water provided, or the safety of the water supply, avoid drinking or brushing your teeth with it. Instead, buy bottled water. If this isn’t possible, boil water for at least five minutes, and allow to cool, before drinking. Ideally, avoid ice, and avoid using tap water to wash your fruit and veg.
- Be prepared
If water isn’t available to wash your hands, then make sure you have alcohol-based hand sanitizers with you. This will help eliminate any dirt and germs from your hands before eating, and prevent the spread of germs.
- Arm your gut with the good stuff
When travelling, the 500 species of bacteria in your gut can become unbalanced, leading to diarrhoea, or other tummy troubles. A probiotic can help reduce the length of time you suffer, and help your body regain its immunity against further bouts of diarrhoea. Probiotics can also reduce your chances of getting traveller’s tummy in the first place, as studies have found that, on average, people taking probiotics, specifically ones which contain Lactobacillus rhamnosus, reduced their risk by 15 per cent.
- Pack early
To ensure your stomach bacteria is in tip-top shape before you leave, take your probiotic supplements at least 30 days before travelling, if they’re not already part of your daily health plan. Of course, don’t forget to pack them for you holiday, either!
Speak to your healthcare practitioner if symptoms persist. Always read the label. Use only as directed. Supplements may only be of assistance if dietary intake is inadequate.
For more information, visit www.blackmores.com.au/probiotics
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