Unhygienic Eating and Dehydration: The Common Digestive Problems Travelers Face and How to Prevent Them

When traveling, many people tend to neglect their digestive health, leading to issues like bloating, heartburn, diarrhea, and food poisoning. During the 5-day holiday from April 30 to May 1, families and groups of friends often choose to travel and relax. However, changes in eating habits and timing when on the go can cause digestive problems. Dr. Vu Truong Khanh from Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi highlights common mistakes travelers make that can impact their digestive health.

One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is eating at unhygienic places where food safety standards may not be met. This can lead to the spread of bacteria and toxins, causing digestive issues. In addition, trying new foods that your body is not used to can result in allergies. It’s essential to choose restaurants that prioritize food hygiene, avoid allergens, and limit consumption of new and unfamiliar dishes.

Another mistake is not drinking enough water while traveling. Factors like sitting for long periods, hot weather, and consuming alcohol can lead to dehydration, resulting in digestive problems like constipation, bloating, and indigestion. Balancing the intake of water throughout the journey is crucial for maintaining good digestive health.

Travelers also tend to have a diet lacking nutritional balance, with more meat and fewer vegetables and fruits. This imbalance can increase the risk of bloating, indigestion, and constipation. Additionally, consuming carbonated drinks can cause discomfort and bloating due to higher blood sugar levels.

It’s also important to prepare for motion sickness while traveling as it can cause nausea and vomiting. Eating greasy or spicy foods while susceptible to motion sickness can worsen symptoms. To prevent gastrointestinal issues while traveling, it is recommended to consume cooked and boiled foods only