Travel-Friendly Digestion: Best Product Recommendations

what is a good product for travel related digestion

Travelling can be exciting, but it can also throw your digestive system off balance. Changes in diet, water quality, and daily routine can cause an upset stomach, leading to bloating, irregular bowel movements, and general discomfort. To prevent these issues, it is recommended to take probiotics or digestive aids before and during travel. Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide a wide range of health benefits, including improving digestion, enhancing nutrient absorption, and supporting immunity. They can be taken as dietary supplements or consumed through probiotic-rich foods such as yoghurt, kimchi, and kefir. Starting a probiotic regimen before travel gives your gut time to build up beneficial bacteria and adapt to new foods and environments. Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary and caffeinated drinks can also help maintain digestive health while travelling.

Characteristics Values
Product Name Travel Gastro, Travelan, OptiBac Travel Abroad Probiotic, Viridian Travel Biotic, BioGaia Immune Active, IDOFORM Travel, FutureKind, Populator Probiotic, Pro BIO Cultures Complex, Lamberts Acidophilus Extra 10, YourBiology Gut+
Product Type Capsule, caplet, probiotic, spray
Ingredients Fulvic acid, polyphenols, Saccharomyces boulardii, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Lactobacillus acidophilus Rosell-52, Bifidobacterium longum Rosell-175, L. reuteri, Vitamin D, digestive enzymes, yogurt cultures, kefir, ginger, glutamine, calcium, Vitamin D, digestive enzymes
Benefits Supports gut microbiome balance, prevents constipation and travellers' diarrhea, relieves diarrhea or constipation, reduces alcohol intoxication, improves metabolism, helps restore and maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut, prevents overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the gut, eases symptoms of gastrointestinal conditions, boosts immunity, improves nutrient absorption, supports mood and sleep, prevents travellers' diarrhea, supports digestive health, relieves constipation, improves gut transit time, supports immune function, maintains gut balance, prevents constipation
How to Use Take 2 capsules per day (3 capsules for people weighing over 100 kg). For prevention, take 1 capsule/day. Take 1-2 caplets before eating. Take at least 7 days before departure. Take with other travel meds. Take at least 30 days before departure.
Side Effects May cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions
Storage Travel-friendly, no refrigeration required

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Probiotics for travel

Travelling can be exciting, but it can also throw your digestive system off balance. Probiotics, often referred to as 'good bacteria', can help restore and maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your gut, known as your gut microbiome. They can also help prevent common travel-related gut issues, such as travellers' diarrhoea, travel constipation, and bloating.

Start Before Departure

It is recommended to start taking probiotics at least a week before your trip to give your body time to adjust. This helps prepare your gut for changes in diet and environment, allowing the probiotics to establish a healthy balance in your gut. By starting early, you can help prevent digestive issues when encountering new foods and water sources during your travels.

Daily Usage and Continuity

Consistency is key to keeping your gut balanced and healthy. Continue taking probiotics daily during your travels to maintain their beneficial effects. Make probiotics a part of your daily routine, just like brushing your teeth or taking vitamins. This regular intake helps maintain a healthy population of beneficial bacteria in your gut, providing continuous support for digestion and immune health.

Choosing the Right Probiotic for Travel

Look for probiotics that contain specific strains known to be effective for travel, such as Saccharomyces boulardii and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG. These strains have been shown to reduce the risk of travellers' diarrhoea and improve gut resilience. Additionally, look for supplements that are shelf-stable and do not require refrigeration, making them travel-friendly.

Practical Tips for Taking Probiotics on the Go

  • Pack probiotic supplements in a travel-friendly container to ensure a convenient supply throughout your trip.
  • Opt for easy-to-pack probiotic-rich snacks like yogurt cups or probiotic granola bars.
  • Drink kefir, which is a fermented milk drink that travels well and can boost your general gut health.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially when flying, as humidity levels on flights are lower than at ground level.
  • Eat fibre-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, to help regulate bowel movements and improve gut motility.
  • Move regularly—walking and stretching help keep your digestive system active.

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Preventing traveller's diarrhea

Traveller's diarrhea is the most common travel-related illness. It is usually caused by ingesting unfamiliar bacteria, often in contaminated water or food. It can occur anywhere, but the highest-risk destinations are in Asia (except for Japan and South Korea), the Middle East, Africa, Mexico, and Central and South America.

Choose food and drinks carefully

  • Eat only foods that are cooked and served hot.
  • Avoid food that has been sitting on a buffet for hours.
  • Eat raw fruits and vegetables only if you have washed them in clean water or peeled them yourself.
  • Drink beverages only from factory-sealed containers.
  • Avoid ice in drinks, as it may have been made from unclean water.
  • Don't eat raw or undercooked meat or shellfish.
  • Avoid tap water, including when brushing your teeth.

Maintain good hygiene

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before eating.
  • If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Keep your hands away from your mouth.

Take probiotics

  • Taking a high-quality probiotic supplement can help to prevent traveller's diarrhea by supporting your gut health. Look for supplements that contain Saccharomyces boulardii, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, and Bifidobacterium.
  • Start taking probiotics at least a week before your trip and continue taking them throughout your travels and for a few days after you return.

Stay hydrated

  • Drink plenty of water, especially when flying.
  • Drink extra water in the days leading up to your trip and ensure you are having regular bowel movements.

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Travel constipation

Preventative Measures:

  • Maintain a balanced diet: Eat plenty of fibre-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid low-fibre and highly processed foods, as they can worsen constipation.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink adequate water to prevent dehydration, which is a common cause of constipation. Carry a water bottle with you and refill it regularly. Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption, as they can contribute to dehydration.
  • Physical activity: Travel often involves prolonged sitting, so it's important to move around and stretch your legs frequently. Schedule physical activities like walks or bike rides during your trip to stay active.
  • Probiotics: Consider taking probiotics, especially Saccharomyces boulardii and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, which have been shown to reduce the risk of travellers' diarrhoea and support gut health. Start taking them at least a week before your trip and continue throughout your journey.
  • Plan bathroom breaks: If you usually have a bowel movement at a specific time, try to plan for this during your trip. Give yourself time to relax, and don't ignore the urge to use the restroom.
  • Manage stress: Stress can impact your gut health, so finding ways to manage travel-related stress can help prevent constipation.

Treatment Options:

  • Stool softeners: If you're experiencing constipation, consider using a stool softener to help soften the stool and make it easier to pass.
  • Osmotic laxatives: Osmotic laxatives, such as magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia) or polyethylene glycol (Miralax), help the colon produce more fluid, making it easier for waste to pass through.
  • Stimulant laxatives: Stimulant laxatives, such as Ex-Lax or Dulcolax, cause the intestines to contract muscles and stimulate bowel movements. However, they should be used with caution and only when other methods have failed, as overuse can increase the risk of colon cancer.
  • Enema or glycerin suppository: In more severe cases, you may need to use an enema or glycerin suppository to stimulate a bowel movement.
  • Medical treatments: If constipation persists or is accompanied by severe symptoms, consult a doctor. They may prescribe medications to treat chronic constipation or perform surgery in severe cases of obstructions or blockages.

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Gut health tips

Travel can be an exciting adventure, but it can also throw your digestive system off balance. Changes in diet, water quality, daily routine, and exposure to new bacteria can cause digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea. Here are some tips to keep your gut healthy while travelling:

Start Probiotics Before Your Trip

Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide a wide range of health benefits, including improving digestion and enhancing nutrient absorption. Taking a probiotic supplement before and during your trip can help your gut adapt to new foods and environments, reducing the risk of travellers' diarrhoea and constipation. Look for supplements containing strains like Saccharomyces boulardii and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, which are known to support gut health during travel. Start taking probiotics at least a week before your trip and continue throughout your journey for the best results.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is crucial, especially when flying or spending long periods on trains or cars. Humidity levels on flights are lower than at ground level, so staying hydrated is essential to maintain digestive regularity and prevent dehydration. Drink half your body weight in ounces of water per day, and consider increasing your intake during travel, especially on flight days.

Eat Fibre-Rich Foods

Constipation is a common issue during travel, and fibre-rich foods can help prevent this. Ensure that every meal includes a significant portion of vegetables and fibre-rich foods. Pack dried fruits, nuts, and chia seeds in your suitcase for a quick fibre boost. However, avoid unpeeled fruits and salads washed in unfiltered water to reduce the risk of travellers' diarrhoea.

Maintain Regular Meals

Sticking to a routine, even while travelling, is beneficial for gut health. Aim for three balanced meals a day, with snacks if needed. Avoid constant grazing and be mindful of portion sizes to promote healthy digestion.

Incorporate Physical Activity

Physical activity, such as a short walk or a stroll on the beach, can help get your digestive system moving and is a great way to explore a new place. Prioritise daily movement to support your gut health.

Sample Local Yogurt

Natural yoghurt is an excellent source of probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. The bacteria present in live yoghurt can vary depending on the local milk used, so sampling the local yoghurt can help your gut adapt to new surroundings. Be cautious of ultra-processed and sweetened yogurts, as they may not offer the same benefits.

Opt for Bottled Water

If the local water at your destination is unsafe to drink, switch to bottled water for everything, including washing fruit and brushing your teeth. This will help prevent bacterial infections from contaminated water.

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Product recommendations

Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide a range of health benefits, including improving digestion, enhancing nutrient absorption, and boosting immunity. Probiotics can be found in certain foods, such as kefir, live yogurt, and sauerkraut, or taken as dietary supplements. Taking probiotics while travelling can help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the gut, reducing the risk of common travel-related gut issues such as bloating and traveller's diarrhoea.

Travel Gastro

Travel Gastro is a vegan, GMO-free, lactose-free, and gluten-free digestive assistant formulated with natural ingredients. It helps support and regulate bowel movements, improve intestinal microbiome and absorption of substances, and relieve diarrhoea or constipation. It is recommended to start taking Travel Gastro at least three days before your trip for the best results.

OptiBac Travel Abroad Probiotic

OptiBac Travel Abroad Probiotic contains Saccharomyces boulardii, a yeast-based probiotic that can help prevent traveller's diarrhoea. It also contains Lactobacillus acidophilus Rosell-52, which supports digestive health by promoting a balanced gut microbiome and improving nutrient absorption.

Viridian Travel Biotic

Viridian Travel Biotic is a heat-resistant, daily capsule that contains Saccharomyces boulardii, which has been shown to help prevent traveller's diarrhoea. It is a convenient and easy-to-carry option for travellers.

BioGaia Immune Active

BioGaia Immune Active contains L. reuteri, a well-researched probiotic that supports digestive health, immune health, and overall wellbeing. It also includes Vitamin D, which is important for immunity.

Travelan

Travelan is a gluten-free product that provides additional support for the digestive system in situations where sanitation is poor or the quality of food and drink is questionable. It contains antibodies that help keep the digestive system functioning normally. Travelan has been clinically proven to offer protection of up to 90.3% against digestive upset.

In addition to these products, it is important to maintain adequate hydration, eat fibre-rich and magnesium-rich foods, and incorporate physical activity into your travel routine to support gut health and digestion while travelling.

Frequently asked questions

Probiotics are often recommended to help with travel-related digestion issues. They can be taken as supplements or consumed through probiotic-rich foods such as yoghurt, kimchi, kefir, and sauerkraut.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide a wide range of health benefits, including improving digestion, enhancing nutrient absorption, and supporting immunity. By taking probiotics before and during travel, you can help your gut adapt to new foods, water sources, and bacteria, reducing the risk of travellers' diarrhoea and constipation.

It is recommended to start taking probiotics at least a week before your trip to give your gut time to build up beneficial bacteria and adjust to the new strains.

Yes, Saccharomyces boulardii and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG are two strains that have been found to significantly reduce the risk of travellers' diarrhoea.

While probiotics are generally considered safe, they can cause side effects, especially when starting a new regimen. Some individuals may experience digestive symptoms such as bloating or mild stomach upsets, headaches, and increased risk of infection. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.

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