Introduction
Planning a trip is exciting, but it can also be stressful. From choosing the duration of your stay to deciding on accommodation and transportation, there’s a lot to consider. However, amidst all the planning, there’s one important detail that often gets overlooked: staying healthy. This is particularly crucial when traveling abroad, as it can make or break your vacation experience.
The Importance of Staying Healthy While Traveling
Maintaining good health while on vacation can be challenging, even under the best circumstances. Your eating habits may become irregular, and you may be exposed to unfamiliar pathogens that can result in traveler’s diarrhea, a condition that can land you in the hospital. In this article, we’ll explore how probiotics can be your secret weapon for a healthy trip. We’ll discuss the benefits of probiotics, how to take them while traveling, and how they can help prevent or minimize the symptoms of traveler’s diarrhea.
Do Probiotics Support Travel Health?
Your digestive system relies on a delicate balance of “good” and “bad” bacteria. Unfortunately, maintaining this balance can be challenging, especially while traveling. The combination of exposure to new germs, a different diet, unclean water, stress, and a change in environment can wreak havoc on your gut health. While making healthier food choices can help, certain external factors are beyond your control when you’re on the road.
When you travel, your body is exposed to unfamiliar pathogens, and your diet undergoes significant changes. Exploring new cuisines and enjoying local drinks is undoubtedly one of the highlights of any trip. However, excessive alcohol consumption and indulging in street food, which may not adhere to strict safety regulations, can lead to digestive troubles. Additionally, the physical exertion and stress associated with exploring new cities can affect your overall well-being. It’s common to overlook proper hydration while traveling, which can further exacerbate digestive issues.
Maintaining your usual healthy routines and habits while abroad can be challenging. This is where probiotics can play a crucial role in supporting your digestive system. However, it’s important to consult with your doctor before starting any probiotic supplementation.
By introducing beneficial bacteria to your gut, probiotics not only help regulate your digestive system but also create a protective barrier that shields your intestinal tract from harmful bacteria present in food and water. Taking probiotics while traveling can enhance your immune system, alleviate constipation, and reduce the risk of experiencing loose stools.
How to Incorporate Probiotics into Your Travel Routine
Integrating probiotics into your travel plans may seem overwhelming, especially when you have so many other things to pack and prepare. However, including probiotics in your travel routine is relatively simple with a few key considerations. Opt for a travel-friendly probiotic supplement that contains at least 30 billion colony-forming units (CFU) and includes strains such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium, as recommended by experts.
Start taking a probiotic supplement at least two weeks before your trip. This gives your body time to adapt to the changes in your gut microbiome. Waiting until you’re already on your trip to begin probiotic supplementation may lead to side effects like bloating, gas, or constipation. By starting the probiotic regimen at home, you can determine the best course of action for your body.
While traveling, continue taking your probiotic supplement daily to avoid travel-related constipation. Taking drinkable probiotics can be more convenient on the go, but be sure to check airline regulations and refrigeration concerns. Conversely, some individuals may be worried about experiencing loose stools or diarrhea, especially when consuming more alcohol or feeling stressed during their trip. If you’re wondering whether you can take probiotics on a plane, double-check the regulations online, as some supplements may not be allowed.
Temperature plays a significant role in maintaining the bacterial count in probiotics over time. Whenever possible, keep your probiotics refrigerated or use ice packs to keep them cool during your trip. Once you arrive at your destination, refrigerate your probiotics to ensure their potency. Bio-K+® offers stable capsules that can be stored at room temperature for up to six months, making them ideal for traveling. With a gentle yet effective 30 billion probiotic formula, Bio-K+® capsules are the perfect travel companion.
Don’t forget to continue taking probiotics for at least two weeks after your trip. This helps your body recover and combat any potential digestive issues or harmful bacteria that may have caused traveler’s diarrhea.
Probiotics as a Defense Against Traveler’s Diarrhea
Traveler’s diarrhea affects 20-50% of people visiting developing countries. This condition can be caused by consuming contaminated food or water or by contracting an Escherichia coli (ETEC) infection. Although it is usually not life-threatening, traveler’s diarrhea can be incredibly uncomfortable and ruin your travel experience. Symptoms include diarrhea, cramps, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes fever. In severe cases, dehydration may occur, necessitating hospitalization in rare instances.
Children are especially susceptible to traveler’s diarrhea, as it can lead to rapid dehydration if left untreated. Seek medical attention if you experience persistent vomiting, a fever of 102°F or higher, bloody stool, severe diarrhea, dry mouth, excessive sleepiness, decreased urine output, or if you notice these symptoms in an infant.
A meta-analysis published in the Epidemiology and Health journal in 2018 confirmed that probiotics are an effective preventive measure against traveler’s diarrhea. Antibiotics and vaccines are alternative options for those who are particularly concerned about this condition.
Choosing the Best Probiotic for Travel
When selecting a probiotic for your travels, consider the following factors:
- Effectiveness of the probiotic strain
- Viability of the bacteria in reaching the intestine
- A minimum CFU count of 30 billion, as recommended by healthcare professionals
Bio-K+® offers drinkable probiotics and FDA-approved capsules that are perfect for travel. Their products utilize a patented combination of Lactobacillus acidophilus CL1285, Lactobacillus casei LBC8OR, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus CLR2. Together, these strains promote healthy gut bacteria. Additionally, Bio-K+® capsules use delayed release technology (DR-caps) to protect the bacteria inside, ensuring their vitality throughout the journey from the stomach to the gut. Studies published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology confirm the safety and effectiveness of Bio-K+® in maintaining a healthy gut.
Conclusion
When you’re on vacation, your focus should be on having fun, relaxing, and creating lasting memories. Concerns about your health should be the furthest thing from your mind. With some pre-planning and the right probiotic supplement, you can ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip. Take the time to find a probiotic that suits your body and travel plans. Remember to exercise caution when trying new foods and drinks. Probiotics offer an extra layer of protection, helping you maintain a balanced gut and ensuring you make the most of your travel adventures.
