Avoiding a dodgy tummy

[firebrand123]

When I travel somewhere even remotely "exotic" I always get a dodgy tummy of some sort. Typically it lasts for 24-48 hours and can be dealt with using imodium but it makes me feel rubbish and spoils at least some of the holiday.

I always do the right things like only drinking bottled water, no ice, being careful with food, etc, but I have a naturally sensitive stomach anyway which doesn't help.

Does anyone have any tips for avoiding an upset stomach beyond all the usual advice? Anyone tried using probiotics or taken anything that helps?

Thanks!

Sounds like this is more due to a diet change than a bug. I'd try and get your stomach used to the food you'll be eating before you go.

I am the same op. I don't really have a change of diet either. I eat a huge variety of cuisines and foods.

Watching with interest as it spoils holidays every time.

Sorry this impacts you too. It really sucks! I'm the same, I eat a big range of food normally so there's no significant change when I go away. I'm thinking of trying the Optibac travel probiotics but they're not cheap so would be great to hear if anyone has used them. I also keep reading that pepto bismol can help but it's always talking about the tablets and we can only get the liquid in the UK so not sure if that works too, how much to take, etc...

Well, the bottle of pepto bismol will have dosage instructions on it so don't worry about that. The tablets and the liquid are the same. It's just a different medium

For me it’s the time difference. For years I thought it was food (except of course in the case of real food poisoning) but finally the penny dropped that even one hour backwards/forwards and disturbed sleep pattern sends an evil message to my digestive system.

Optibac's S Boullardi (it's a probiotic yeast) is very good for travellers diarrhoea, it's best taken before and during your trip.

Mine is because I hate flying. From stepping on the plane and for a couple of days my tummy is all over the place. Doesn't matter how long or short the flight, how good or suspect the food hygiene might be.

Thanks. I was looking at their Travel Abroad tablets but do you suggest the S. Boullardi ones? The travel ones seem to have s. boullardi in them but other stuff as well.

They do look as though they'd be better for travelling.
If you give them a call or use their free consultation service they can advise you, I've always found them to be very helpful.
Good luck and hope you have a lovely holiday with no tummy issues.

Thank you so much 😊