When we are exposed to new bacteria that we are not familiar with, our bodies will tend to react badly. It is common that the new strains will act as pathological strains for us; this causes an infection known as gastroenteritis, commonly called the "stomach flu", "the trots", or just plain old diarrhea. This condition can quickly ruin an otherwise fantastic vacation. Interestingly, traveller's diarrhea (TD) affects an estimated 30-70% of international travellers, that's roughly 40 million annual cases.

Why Does It Only Affect Travellers?

Interestingly, we all become accustomed to the bacteria in our surrounding environments. Our immune systems learn how to deal with them quickly, and we develop immunity, much like a constant vaccination. Research suggests that this type of adaptation takes anywhere from months to years to develop. So, the locals in your area of travel are well adapted to deal with any pathogens that they commonly encounter. When we travel, we enter regions where we are no longer familiar with the local flora, and the new bacteria can cause negative effects.

What Bacteria Causes Traveller's Diarrhea?

The most common cause of TD is enterotoxigenic E. coli, and microbes account for around 80% of cases (the other 20% are viral). Several bacteria can cause traveller's diarrhea. Parasites can also cause traveller's diarrhea in some cases. Common parasites include Giardia and Cryptosporidium. Parasitic infections sometimes cause symptoms days or weeks after exposure.

Signs and Symptoms of Traveller's Diarrhea

Most people are very aware of the moment that they have been affected by TD. By definition, it requires three or more unformed stools in a 24-hour period occurring in association with bloating, abdominal cramps, nausea, low-grade fever, urgency and fatigue. Symptoms can occur at any time during travel or even several weeks after returning home.

How Can I Prevent Traveller's Diarrhea?

Contaminated food and water cause most cases of traveller's diarrhea. Poor hand hygiene can increase exposure to harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites. The highest risk destinations include Latin America, Africa, Asia and the Middle East. When travelling to these destinations, it is always a good idea to drink bottled water and be careful where you eat. Avoid ice, as it is likely made with local water. Try to eat cooked foods and avoid raw vegetable dishes, such as salad, which have the opportunity for contamination at many steps in the preparation process.

Ways To Treat Traveller's Diarrhea

Probiotics – Prevention and Treatment

Probiotics are a fantastic way of preventing infection and diarrhea while traveling. For these purposes, it's best to begin taking your probiotic two weeks to a month before departure and then also throughout your stay. This allows you to build up the health of your gut flora, so that your friendly bacteria are at their strongest if you come into contact with pathogenic organisms. Continue probiotics after symptoms improve to help support gut recovery. Many people continue probiotics for several weeks after symptoms resolve. Gut recovery may take weeks or months in some cases. Research suggest Saccharomyces boulardii may help prevent traveller's diarrhea. Some studies also support its use during recovery and treatment.

Other Digestive Health Nutrients

In addition to replenishing your gut flora, it is also very important to maintain your hydration. Diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Getting sufficient electrolytes and drinking as much water as possible are both great strategies to prevent further problems. Most TD resolves within 3-5 days, so if your symptoms continue for longer than that time, it would be a good idea to seek medical attention. You should go sooner if you notice blood in your stool, as this can be a sign of a more severe condition. Using soluble fibre can significantly help to slow digestive motility and give you less time on the toilet. Despite the temptation to run back to your vacation plans at the first sign of resolution, be sure to take the time you need to rest and heal. TD symptoms can take a toll on the body, so take that into account when you plan your next outing.