June 15th 2024.
We all know that flying can be a bit of a hassle. Despite carefully choosing our airport outfit and indulging in a glass of fizz before takeoff, the reality is often long queues, questionable in-flight food, and sleep deprivation. And even after finally reaching our destination, we can't seem to escape the discomfort and unease in our stomachs.
According to GP Dr Zoe Williams, this feeling is known as 'gut lag'. It can occur as soon as the plane takes off, due to the change in air pressure causing gasses in our stomachs to expand. But that's not the only culprit. The change in time zones can also throw off our body's internal clock, which regulates important bodily functions, including digestion. This can lead to bloating, indigestion, and overall discomfort while our bodies try to adjust.
But fear not, there are steps we can take to ensure a happier flight and vacation. Dr Zoe suggests incorporating small, easy habits into our pre and post-travel routine to support gut health. This includes eating a balanced and varied diet, with plenty of fiber-rich foods to nourish our gut microbiome. Fermented foods, like yogurt, can also be a tasty and convenient snack to support gut health while traveling.
While we may be preoccupied with packing and last-minute preparations before a trip, it's worth taking a moment to focus on our gut health. And speaking of good travel habits, an American flight attendant named Cher has recently shared her biggest pet peeve when it comes to airplane behavior. She believes that putting any type of liquid bottle in the overhead bin is the worst thing a passenger can do. Not only does it run the risk of soaking other people's bags, but the change in air pressure can also cause the bottle to leak. And let's be honest, no one wants to be the unlucky person who gets drenched by someone else's water bottle.
To keep our gut health in check while traveling, it's also important to stay active and get enough sleep. Regular movement can positively impact our gut, and getting into a regular sleep pattern can help regulate hunger hormones and encourage healthy eating habits. And of course, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can aid in digestion and prevent constipation.
Do you have a travel horror story to share? We'd love to hear it! Get in touch by emailing us at [insert email here]. Let's all work together to make our travel experiences a little more comfortable and enjoyable.
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