A couple walk on Caleta Beach holding hands, Acapulco, Mexico, 1968. (Photo by Slim Aarons/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
Health - Wellness
Tips On How To Support Your Gut Health On Vacation
By CIARA TURNER-EWERT
Going on vacation means exploring new places, meeting new people, and eating new food. It can be exciting to try new things, especially the local cuisine, but it is important to prioritize your gut health when going on vacation, or you may not have the greatest time.
Eating a diverse diet supports a healthy microbiome, since the gut becomes more tolerant of a variety of foods. However, if your gut reacts negatively after a food marathon while abroad, try eating fiber-rich foods, as well as more fruits, veggies, legumes, and fermented foods like yogurt or sauerkraut.
Functional medicine gynecologist Wendie Trubow says that fatigue or stress also affects the gut, since "stress will shut down or inhibit regular bowel movements". To avoid travel fatigue or stress and avoid intestinal problems, drink plenty of water, stay active, and prioritize relaxation.
Once your vacation is over, it is still essential to continue eating fiber-rich foods for gut health. If you still have gut issues from your trip, despite your best efforts, get back to your normal home routine as soon as possible, including normalizing your sleep and fitness, and as always, stay hydrated.