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How to deal with traveler’s tummy

Portrait of woman with stomach ache sitting sofa

Travelers sometimes find themselves suffering from diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting. This is often to do with the fact that travelers have to deal with many changes in their lifestyle and eating habits when on holiday. Stresses like new foods, dehydration and changes in climate, can place a stain on the digestive system. Most often the symptoms are inconvenient but can be easily treated. Here are some tips on how to reduce and deal with traveler’s tummy.

Skip the ice and raw foods – Ask for drinks without ice to avoid drinking water that is not clean. You should also avoid eating raw foods like salads in developing countries and always drink bottled water.

Note high-risk areas- Be extra careful in high-risk areas like Latin America, Middle East, Africa and Asian, as certain factors like worker hygiene will be out of your control.

Symptoms – The main symptoms of traveler’s tummy will include diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Most often symptoms will last a few days but often subside within 48 hours. The main concern when losing fluids is dehydration, therefore ensure you drink an electrolyte solution and consider seeking medical help. It is also best that you avoid drinks such as soda, coffee, tea, and alcoholic drinks during this time. If you are hungry, choose a BRAT diet of bananas, rice, apples or applesauce andtoast to help your system accept food.

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