Healthy bowel function while traveling

Intestinal transit · Vitamins & minerals
Eléonore de Maurissens
Reading time: 3 minutes
Een goede darmwerking op reis

Many people suffer from gastrointestinal problems when traveling. Constipation, diarrhea, a bloated feeling… It can happen to anyone, wherever you go! But if you prepare well before you leave on your trip, you can prevent quite a few discomforts. Discover our tips that can help you on your way to a trip without having to suffer from your digestion!1,2


The end of the year is approaching and perhaps you are planning to travel, explore new places, or visit your expat family? But take note: whether you are going on an adventure to an exotic country or prefer winter sports and raclette, you may suffer from disrupted bowel function!

 

Traveling and suffering from diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain…

When thinking about traveling, we often dream of exotic countries, but the hygienic conditions there are often not optimal. As a result, we often have to deal with traveler's diarrhea (or "tourista"). However, there are other problems that can arise while traveling. The most common problems are constipation, a bloated feeling, cramps, and heartburn.1

Up to 4 in 10 people on their return journey have stomach problems caused by their trip!1

What are the causes of digestive problems while traveling?2,3

There are many different digestive problems. Some of these problems are related to traveling, while others are not:

  • eating raw vegetables, poorly washed food, and drinking water that is not suitable for drinking;
  • lack of hydration, which can also be caused by excessive alcohol consumption;
  • time zone changes and disturbances to the body's internal clock;
  • changes in atmospheric pressure, especially during a stay in the mountains;
  • stress associated with traveling;
  • changes in eating habits.

 

Traveling: 5 tips for good digestion2,3

1. Plan your trip: ask a healthcare professional if you need special vaccinations or medicines. Wherever you are going, take a kit with everything you need in case of digestive or bowel problems.

2. Pay attention to your diet: watch what you eat and drink, especially if you go to local street food markets or other places where hygienic conditions leave something to be desired.

3. Make sure you stay well hydrated throughout the day, especially if you have digestive problems.

4. Eat healthily all year round and even more so when traveling. Choose high-fiber food to help prevent constipation.

5. If you have a sensitive stomach or if you suffer from a bloated feeling easily, don't forget to take along products that improve intestinal comfort, such as certain food supplements.

 

Are you planning to travel soon? What are your habits before departure to avoid digestive issues?
Share your experience on our Facebook and Instagram!

Scientific references

  1. McCallum K.; 10 Things That Lead to Digestive Problems While Traveling. Houston Methodist Leading Medicine. June 19, 2023 - https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/2023/jun/10-things-that-lead-to-digestive-problems-while-traveling/
  2. Butler D., et al.; Travel-related gastrointestinal diseases: Assessment and management. Public Health Chall. 2022; 1:e30. https://doi.org/10.1002/puh2.30
  3. Preventing Gut Issues When Traveling. GI Associates and Endoscopy Center. https://gi.md/resources/articles/preventing-gut-issues-when-traveling

Product mentioned in this article

Fit-O-Trans

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