Why Is It Harder to "Go" on Vacation Sometimes? A Doctor Explains Vacation Constipation
Ever wonder why you can often go days on vacation without going No. 2?
Well, you're not alone!
"There are several things that happen when we travel," gastroenterologist Dr. Anish Sheth -- who received his degree from Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University -- says.
WHY IS IT HARDER TO POOP ON VACATION SOMETIMES?
1. We get dehydrated (a.k.a. we're not drinking enough water and/or possibly drinking more alcohol than usual)
"Think about what happens to your skin and lips when you're on an airplane," the doctor also points out. "They become dry."
"Imagine the same thing happening in your colon," he continues. "It's taking the stool, drying it out."
2. We may not have access to fresh fruits and vegetables, which causes our fiber intake to "plummet," as the doc puts it
3. We suffer from jet lag, which could throw our body's pooping routine out of whack
So, to combat these challenges, Dr. Anish *always* brings 3 things with him when he travels.
WHAT TO PACK TO AVOID VACATION CONSTIPATION
1. A bottle of water
2. High-fiber, non-perishable snacks, like dried fruits, nuts and fiber bars
3. Probiotics
"It keeps you regular," the doc explains. "And the added benefit is that it actually could prevent traveler's diarrhea, as well."
Related Articles