Get Fit for Travel

Ready…

There are many things you can do to prepare for an enjoyable holiday, including:

• Have a medical check-up. Make sure you are healthy before you travel.
• Pack a medical kit for common ailments for yourself and any children travelling with you.
• Ensure peace of mind by getting travel insurance coverage.

Get Set…

Taking proactive step to prime your body before travelling is essential in ensuring good health and an enjoyable holiday. Boosting your body’s immune system one to two weeks before travelling will help your body to cope with the extra physical stress and prevent common travel-related illness such as upset stomach, sore throat, cold & flu.

Besides the basic multivitamins/mineral and fish oil supplements, you may consider adding on the following immune boosters:

• Probiotics

The digestive tract relies on live bacteria (microflora) to help support a robust immune response. These probiotic bacteria help prevent any gastrointestinal bugs you are exposed to during travel from taking hold. The good bacteria will also keep your immune system operating at high level to prevent you from falling sick.

• Beta Glucans

Beta glucans can naturally boost the immune system by optimizing its response to diseases and infections. Because the body does not produce beta glucans naturally, the only way to get them is through outside sources. Beta glucans act as immunomodulator agents that help regulate the immune system, making it more efficient.

• Zinc

Zinc plays a critical role in supporting healthy immune function. Zinc lozenges, taken at the first sign of cold, typically a scratchy throat, has been shown to help shorten the duration of common cold and flu.

Go…

The most common travel-related illnesses are gastrointestinal diseases usually picked up from poorly prepared foods or untreated water. Here are some tips to help you avoid diarrhoea, stomach upset, nausea and vomiting:

• Hydrate adequately, preferably with bottled water. Avoid ice in drinks.
• Eat thick-skinned fruit and vegetables that you can peel yourself, such as bananas, oranges and mandarins. Avoid pre-cut fruits.
• Make sure food is cooked thoroughly and eat it while it’s hot. Avoid shellfish and raw foods.
• Do not buy food from street stalls. Eat at reputable restaurants.

BON VOYAGE!