Going on vacation is the perfect opportunity to kick back, relax, and enjoy some delicious cuisine. However, between indulging in new foods and indulging in all-inclusive meals, it’s common to experience digestive distress while on vacation.
The last thing you want is to spend your time feeling uncomfortable and bloated, so it’s important to take some precautions to keep your digestive system healthy while travelling. Here are some tips for relaxing on vacation without digestive distress.
1. Don’t Overeat
It’s easy to go overboard when you are presented with a smorgasbord of delicious foods. But overeating is one of the main culprits of digestive discomfort.
When you overeat, it puts extra pressure on your digestive system, causing stomach cramps, indigestion, and bloating.
Instead, practice mindful eating. Take the time to enjoy your food, savoring its flavors and textures. Listen to your body’s signals of fullness and stop eating when you are satisfied, not stuffed.
2. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can cause a host of digestive issues, including constipation and bloating. Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water while on vacation. It’s also important to avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate your body.
Carry a reusable water bottle with you and refill it throughout the day. Drinking water will not only keep your digestive system healthy but will also help you feel more energized and refreshed.
3. Include Probiotics in Your Diet
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help keep your gut healthy and functioning properly. They can be found in foods like yogurt, kefir, kombucha and kimchi.
Including probiotics in your diet can help regulate your digestion and boost your immune system.
Consider supplementing your diet with a probiotic supplement while on vacation to help support your digestive system.
4. Pack Healthy Snacks
When travelling, it can be difficult to find healthy snack options. This can lead to overeating and unhealthy food choices.
By packing healthy snacks like fresh fruit, granola bars, and nuts, you can avoid unhealthy snacking and keep your digestive system happy.
5. Get Enough Rest
Travelling can be stressful, which can affect your digestion. Make sure to get enough rest while on vacation to help reduce stress levels and improve digestion. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep per night, and take time to relax during the day.
6. Stay Active
Physical activity can help promote healthy digestion by increasing blood flow to the digestive system. While on vacation, take advantage of opportunities to stay active, such as going for a walk on the beach or taking a yoga class.
7. Avoid Trigger Foods
Pay attention to how your body reacts to certain foods. If you notice that some foods cause digestive distress, avoid them while on vacation. Common trigger foods include spicy foods, greasy foods, and foods high in fat or sugar.
8. Take Time for Digestion
Allow your body time to digest your food before jumping back into activities. Eating on the go can cause digestive problems such as bloating and acid reflux. Give yourself at least 30 minutes after eating before engaging in any strenuous activities.
9. Consider Digestive Enzymes
If you have a known sensitivity to certain foods or digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), digestive enzymes may help improve digestion.
Digestive enzymes are supplements that help break down food into smaller, more easily digestible components.
10. Seek Medical Help if Needed
If you experience severe digestive distress while on vacation, seek medical help. This could be a sign of a more serious condition that requires immediate attention.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your digestive system stays healthy and happy while on vacation. So go ahead and enjoy that exotic cuisine and relax without worrying about digestive distress.