We hope you are all enjoying the beautiful summer weather. With a few weeks remaining to get out of town, Dr. Neetu has some great tips for keeping your tummy healthy and happy for summer travel while going abroad, or even while going on local trips!
- Probiotics– Good bacteria to protect the digestive system from any influx of virus, bacteria or fungus from contaminated water, food, or environmental toxins. The digestive system makes up 80% of our immune system. Protecting the gut with good bacteria while travelling, will offer protection from travel related illness. Quality of probiotics make the difference, a lower priced variety will likely have little protective benefit. Brio carries HMF products by Seroyal which are highly researched and high standards of regulation.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) – a distressed stomach’s best friend. One to two teaspoons in 1/2 a glass of water 15 minutes prior to meals. ACV will aid in digestion, decrease gastric reflux, decrease bloating and abdominal pain. Use as needed. Liquid or capsules can be taken along during travel.
- Try to avoid Antacids– we have been programmed to think that symptoms of acid reflux are a result of too much stomach acid production, however, in our clinical observation; the problem is usually too little stomach acid production. Stomach acid production can decrease when the body is stressed. Overeating can absolutely be a stressor to the body. Again, try ACV to help normalize stomach acid levels.
- Peppermint Tea – Peppermint (Mentha piperita) can calm a distressed tummy almost immediately. This can rid the body of symptoms of dyspepsia, gas, pain, bloating. If peppermint tea does not quite do the trick, Peppermint Oil Capsules are an excellent supplement, taken as needed.
- Fennel Seeds (Foeniculum vulgare)– Have you ever noticed at the end of a delicious Greek meal, you will often get a tiny bowl of fennel seed candy? This is not a random offering as fennel can ease abdominal pain, gas and bloating almost immediately. Simply chew on a small amount and swallow. The seeds can also be boiled in water, strained, and drink as a tea.
- Try to avoid beverages with meals– Have you also noticed at most Asian restaurants you will not receive ice water with your meal unless it is requested? You will however, receive small cups of warm tea. Small amounts of warm tea aid digestion. Ice cold drinks place stress on the digestive system, dilute digestive enzymes and stomach acid levels. For optimal digestion, try to limit beverages to half an hour before or after meals. While travelling ensure filtered water is consumed; be careful of ice cubes, inquire if they are also made from filtered water.
