Bon Voyage with a Healthy Gut: Staying Happy and Hydrated While Traveling

Summer is synonymous with vacations, and what better way to spend them than exploring new destinations? While traveling broadens our horizons and creates lasting memories, it can also take a toll on our bodies with days consisting of heavy travel. Common complaints like jet lag, leg cramps, and constipation can put a damper on your adventures. Well fear not fellow travelers! By understanding how travel disrupts your body and taking steps to counteract those disruptions, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience. This article focuses on two key areas: preventing dehydration and keeping your digestive system on track while flying high in the sky.

Staying hydrated might not be at the top of your pre-flight checklist, but it should be. Airplanes have a surprisingly low humidity level, typically between 10-20% compared to the optimal range of 30-60% for humans. This dry environment, coupled with the fact that many travelers underestimate their fluid needs, can lead to rapid dehydration. You might not even feel thirsty, but symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and dry skin are telltale signs.

Here's our top tips on how to stay hydrated while traveling:

• Pack an empty, reusable water bottle and fill it up after security checks and keep sipping throughout your flight!

• Consider packing some electrolyte packets or tablets to add to your water. Electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium help your body absorb fluids more effectively. Popular brands include Liquid IV and Ultima Replenisher, with options for those watching their sodium intake.

• Snacking smart is also crucial. Fruits like watermelon or oranges provide water, electrolytes, and natural sugars that further aid hydration.

• Avoid sugary sodas and alcohol, which can worsen dehydration. Instead, opt for water, flavored seltzer, or unsweetened tea or juices.

• Aim to drink eight ounces of water per hour during flights. If you plan to sleep, try to drink as much as possible beforehand and rehydrate upon waking.

  
  

Travel can also disrupt your digestive system and does so in several ways. Dietary changes, stress, and jet lag can all contribute to constipation, the most common digestive woe for travelers. To keep your gut happy it is important to consider and incorporate some major things. For one, try your best to maintain a balanced diet. What this may look like when traveling is packing healthy snacks and sticking to familiar foods as much as possible. Another important aspect to consider is managing stress levels. Techniques like deep breathing can help alleviate travel anxiety. Another important one to remember is to be sure to pack  your medications, especially if you take any to help manage pre-existing digestive conditions. Another important consideration is to be mindful of any pre-flight meals. This can look like avoiding foods that might make you feel a bit  gassy or any carbonated beverages that can worsen bloating and constipation. Additionally, adjusting gradually to time changes is another big one. A good way to do this might be getting some sunlight in the morning and avoiding late-night meals or snacks in your new location to help regulate your “body clock” otherwise known as your circadian rhythm. Finally, it’s important to consider some over the counter remedies for any potential problems like constipation or motion sickness. By following these tips, you can address dehydration and digestive issues, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience. 

Now that you're armed with this knowledge about hydration and digestion, you can conquer travel woes and focus on what truly matters… creating unforgettable memories on your adventures! So, pack your reusable water bottle, stock up on healthy snacks, and approach your trip with a relaxed mindset. Here's to a smooth flight, a happy gut, and a fantastic vacation - from your friends at AFE!