We all know what it’s like to get sick when traveling. Whether it’s a cold or the stomach bug, being sick can really put a damper on your work or vacation plans. You can try to build up your immunity before you leave, but often times we’re exposed to different germs and environments, leaving us defenseless. That’s why you should always pack your probiotics. Probiotics are known for their positive impact on the digestive system, but they are also fantastic travel companions. By maintaining healthy colonies of bacteria, your body can function at its best, even when you’re away from home.
Immune Boosting Benefits
Whether you’re traveling near or far, getting from point A to point B can put your immune system to the test. Planes, trains, and buses are known breeding grounds for germs, and sometimes you arrive with more than you packed in the form of a nasty cold or flu. Combined with the system shock of changing weather, poorly circulated air, lack of sleep, and travel stress, your body may be taking quite a hit.
Traveling can bring increased risk and exposure to viruses that cause the common cold and flu. Now that mask mandates have been lifted in many parts of the country, we’re getting exposed to germs once again. Probiotics can help. Studies have shown that probiotics can help prevent and treat the common cold, flu, and viral gastroenteritis. This is because 70 percent of the cells that comprise your immune system reside in your gut. The gut is often the first entry point for exposure to pathogens (bad bacteria and viruses that can cause illness); therefore your gut needs to be thriving and healthy in order to avoid getting sick.
A Healthy Gut is a Happy Gut
One of the highlights of visiting new places or regions is sampling the native cuisine. Whether you’re abroad trying Indian curry or in New Orleans looking for the best gumbo, food adventures can have a devastating effect on your digestive system. Most seasoned travelers know to avoid tap water if you’re unsure about its origin, but even with the proper precautions, there’s always a chance of Montezuma’s Revenge striking when you least expect it.
Probiotics are a great way to battle bloat and reduce the risk of Traveler’s Diarrhea (TD) when exploring new places. Maintaining or even increasing your probiotic intake while traveling can help keep your gut happy and healthy so you can enjoy yourself—and all the delicious foods you plan on tasting. By improving the health of your digestive system, probiotics have been shown to both prevent and treat TD.
So, while you might be tempted to travel light this fall and leave your supplements behind, be sure to pack your probiotics. Probiotics are more effective if you continue taking them while you’re away from home.
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