How to prevent Bali Belly and other gastrointestinal conditions that affect tourists

Up to 16% of travelers visiting Southeast Asia suffer from what is known as Bali Belly , a gastroenteritis commonly caused by contaminated food or drinks, which can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, or severe diarrhea. This has become one of the most common problems , and most shared on social media, among those traveling to international destinations with different health conditions than their own.

In general, the changes associated with tourism can trigger what is known as " traveler's sickness ," a set of digestive disorders , such as diarrhea or constipation , that interfere with comfort and can negatively affect the experience if not properly treated. " Traveler's diarrhea is a very common gastrointestinal condition , affecting up to 60% of tourists, depending on where they travel," explains Dr. Miguel Ignacio López , a specialist in family and community medicine and collaborator of Schwabe Farma Ibérica . "The triggers can be diverse: bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections , although bacteria are usually the most common cause," he notes.

When it comes to digestive balance during vacation , the best strategy is to plan ahead. “Beyond basic measures like avoiding unbottled water or limiting raw food consumption in tropical or remote destinations, taking probiotics before embarking on a trip can be a simple way to protect your digestive system. Products in the Pegaso range , formulated with specific strains, can help strengthen your microbiota against common situations like dietary changes, jet lag, or travel stress,” notes Dr. Miguel López .

It's also advisable to maintain certain digestive habits as much as possible even when you're away from home: sticking to mealtimes, including foods rich in soluble fiber like oatmeal or bananas, and taking brisk walks or engaging in moderate physical activity all contribute to improving intestinal transit . Alternating local dishes with lighter options can help avoid overloading the digestive system, especially in places where the cuisine is highly seasoned or fatty.

One in four travelers suffers from constipation

Although less talked about, constipation is another common vacation complaint, affecting up to 25% of travelers . Physical inactivity , long car or plane trips , disorganized mealtimes, low fiber and water intake , and travel-related stress can slow bowel function and cause feelings of heaviness, bloating, or difficulty bowel movements.

To minimize this risk, it is recommended to follow simple practices such as adequate hydration , a diet rich in fiber , with fruits such as plums , pears , kiwis or apples with skin , and vegetables such as spinach , artichokes , cooked carrots or broccoli , in addition to whole grains . It is also key to avoid sitting for long periods of time , pay attention to your body's signals even in unfamiliar environments and try to maintain certain daily habits .

In specific cases of constipation, probiotics with specific strains and components such as galactooligosaccharides can be helpful in promoting a balanced intestinal microbiota . On the other hand, "there are alternatives such as Pegaso Modulax , formulated with lactulose , prebiotic fiber , plum juice concentrate , and plant extracts such as tamarind, hibiscus, fennel, and lemon verbena, which contribute to maintaining regular intestinal transit ," says Dr. Miguel López.

If any digestive disorder persists during your trip, whether diarrhea, constipation, or other gastrointestinal symptoms, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional . "An early and appropriate approach to these problems is essential to avoid complications and maintain digestive health during and after your vacation," concludes Dr. López.