Tips on preventing constipation while traveling

Have you ever noticed how traveling seems to bring on constipation?  There are several reasons for this and there’s nothing worse than having a great trip spoiled by the discomfort caused from constipation such as bloating and gas.  Let’s look at some tips on preventing constipation the next time you head out for a trip.

Tip #1

How far will you be traveling?  Will you be sitting for duration of more than three or four hours in an airplane?  Get up and get moving!  Now granted, if your plane trip ends up being one of those turbulent ridden flights that warrants the pilot keeping the seatbelt light on, then you’ll have troubles.  If not, make sure you get up to stretch your legs and move around a bit to avoid constipation.

Tip #2

If you’re driving, whenever you stop for gas make sure you park the car after filling up and walk around for awhile to avoid constipation.  If possible, pull over at waysides to get a little exercise.  You may even consider including a jump rope in your traveling gear to stave off constipation.  Jumping rope is a fantastic exercise!

Tip #3

Pack healthy snacks like carrots or apples instead of junk.  So often “road trip” brings to mind endless bags of refined carb munchies like cookies or chips which can bring on constipation.  Adding more fiber to your diet while traveling is important if you want to avoid constipation.  Keep fiber supplement packets handy to mix with your coffee or tea.

Tip #4

Stay hydrated to avoid constipation!  When you’re away from home, it’s not as easy as grabbing a glass of water from the fridge dispenser whenever you’d like.  Make sure you pack plenty of water bottles for the trip and above all, don’t wait until you’re thirsty to reach for that water bottle!  Once you become thirsty, you are already partially dehydrated.

Tip #5

Although caffeine’s diuretic nature can actually cause constipation, drinking decaf versions of iced tea can be an excellent way to keep up with your fluid requirements and avoid constipation.  Juice is also a nice alternative to water if you’re just plain “watered-out.”  Some juices such as orange juice also provide some fiber which of course also helps stave off constipation.

Tip #6

Be careful not to stray too far from your normal, healthy diet.  Traveling seems to put people on that mode that says “Hey, why not… I’m on vacation!”  Pretty soon, all that fattening rich cuisine can cause some major constipation issues.  Make sure you don’t indulge too much while traveling.  A good rule of thumb is to eat normally for at least two of your meals each day.

Tip #7

Another source of constipation could be a big change in eating customs.  If you live on the west coast and have travelled further east, you might find less and less health food on the menu.  People in the Midwest and South tend to have a lot of “down-home” type meals that you just aren’t used to.  You’ll have to be creative and choose sides on the menu such as salads to help stave off constipation.

Tip #8

While taking tours at your travel destination, opt for the type that involves walking rather than sitting.  Bus tours that keep you seated forever while the tour guide voice booms over the intercom are nothing in comparison to getting out and about to see things up close.  By doing this, you also avoid constipation by getting some exercise.

Tip #9

Make sure you include some “active” activities!  Sure, while on vacation you most definitely need to kick back and relax.  Just make sure to include some activities that help you avoid constipation as well.  Go dancing, participate in a local sport or game, or go for a sunrise jog in the beach every other morning.