Traveling is an exciting adventure that many people look forward to. Whether it's for work or pleasure, it's a great opportunity to explore new cities, meet new people and even experience different cultures and taste new cuisines. However, while traveling, it's common for your gut and digestive system to become disrupted.
A change of environment, new foods, varying climates, even drinking the water can impact your gut health. It's essential to take steps to maintain good gut health while away from home. OPTY.NC co-founder and naturopath, Cate Lilja, shares tips and tricks to help you keep your gut healthy while traveling.
TOP TRAVEL TIPS:
1. Stay Hydrated with Safe Water Sources
Staying hydrated is essential, especially while traveling in different climates. Drinking enough water can help maintain a healthy gut. However, one of the biggest challenges while traveling is to make sure the water you drink is safe. Buying bottled water is an option but not environmentally friendly. A better alternative is to carry a water bottle with a filter. The filter removes impurities and makes tap water safe to drink. Alternatively, you can also boil water to ensure its safety.
2. Pack Healthy Snacks
Unfamiliar foods and new tastes can impact your gut health. To avoid eating unhealthy snacks while traveling, pack healthy snacks such as nuts, dried fruits, and protein bars. These snacks are easy to carry and can help you maintain a balanced diet and avoid overeating on junk food. Additionally, packing your snacks can save you money and time while traveling.
3. Prioritize Sleep
Sleep is vital for good gut health. When you don't get enough sleep, your body produces cortisol, which can harm the gut bacteria. Traveling can disrupt your sleep cycle due to jet lag and unfamiliar sleeping environments. To prioritize sleep, ensure you get enough rest before traveling and maintain hydration. Try to stick to a regular sleep schedule and try to get 7-8 hours of sleep at night.
4. Probiotics and Prebiotics
Probiotics and Prebiotics are an excellent way to maintain a healthy gut while traveling. Probiotics are live bacteria that are beneficial for your digestive system, while Prebiotics are food for the healthy bacteria in your gut. Consuming probiotics and prebiotics can help improve digestion, boost immunity, and reduce the risk of digestive issues while traveling. You can get probiotics and prebiotics through supplements like our Ultimate Elixirs or Cellular Renew, or through natural food sources like yogurts, kefir, and fermented vegetables.
5. Exercise Regularly
Exercising regularly can help maintain good gut health. Exercising helps promote circulation in the gut, which can help reduce constipation and improve digestion. Additionally, exercise can help reduce stress levels, which can have a positive impact on your gut health. During travel, try to incorporate some physical activity wherever you can. Take a walk around the area you're visiting, take the stairs instead of an elevator, or try to incorporate some yoga poses in your day.
Whether you are jet-setting for business or leisure, hitting the road can provide a refreshing escape from daily routines. However, it's important to prioritize your well-being and digestive health while away. Luckily, doing so doesn't have to be complicated. Drink plenty of water, bring along nutrient-dense snacks, prioritize resting, consume probiotics and prebiotics, and exercise whenever possible. By following these easy-to-follow tips and tricks, you can ensure that your journey is healthy and happy.
Original article was featured in the Health and Fitness Travel - Australia
