Gut doctor: this is why you have trouble pooping while traveling

pooping traveling

There are four common reasons why you might have trouble pooping

Whether it is a long flight, a never ending car ride or a quick overnight trip; your bowels will always react to travel. And usually it is not in a positive way. So why do we have trouble pooping when we travel? Will Bulsiewicz, M.D., a Charleston, South Carolina-based gastroenterologist and New York Times bestselling author of Fiber Fueled explains the reasons why we have trouble pooping when we travel.

1. Stress

Even though your vacation is supposed to be relaxing, it can definitely be very stressful to travel. And stress affects your bowels. That means that it would really pay off to invest in some ways to reduce stress. Things that you can do while you’re traveling or when you arrive at your destination.

2. Rhythm

Chances are that you poop pretty regularly; usually in the mornings. And that means that whenever you switch time zones or whenever you spend the morning traveling, your rhythm gets thrown off. As soon as you get used to your new routine, your bowels will adjust too. Only to be upset again when you arrive back home.

3. Movement

When you’re inactive, you are increasing your risk of constipation. And when you spend a lot of time sitting in the car, on a plane or lounging on a beach chair on vacation, you’re not moving around as much as you should. Just make sure you walk around for thirty minutes each day. That way, you won’t be constipated and your trip will feel way more relaxed.

4. Food and drinks

Something that directly affects your gut health is food or drinks. Whenever you leave your home, you’re exposed to different kinds of foods. Things that you might not have prepared for yourself at home. And that will change your gut health and the frequency with which you poop. So, make sure you eat plenty of fiber-rich foods too and include some probiotic foods in your diet. Also try to drink plenty of water and limit your alcohol intake.

With these tips, your time traveling might be more pleasant in the future.

Read more: These Signs Can Tell You If Your Bowels Are Upset

Source: Eating Well | Image: Unsplash, Clay Banks