Reviewed medically by Elizabeth Barnes, RDN
If you’re planning a trip, it’s safe to say food poisoning isn’t something you want to add to your list. Still, around 30-70% of individuals are likely to encounter…traveler’s diarrhea”an indication of food poisoning,” occurring during or shortly after their trips.
Here are several actions you can perform to lower your risk, while continuing to appreciate the local culture and food.
1. Dine Where the Locals Prefer
You don’t have to completely steer clear of street food or local eateries during your travels, as long as you exercise caution. In fact, food carts and family-owned restaurants are frequently where you can create some of your most unforgettable travel experiences.
Another method to lower your chances of becoming ill is to choose places that consistently attract local customers. It’s likely that a local won’t revisit the same eatery or food cart if they had a bad experience with food poisoning there.
It will also be beneficial to focus on stalls or restaurants that prepare food fresh upon order, rather than leaving it out.
2. Read Restaurant Reviews
On a related note, it’s wise to browse online restaurant reviews before eating at a new place, keeping an eye on any mentions of sickness or cleanliness issues. Think about using Google Maps, TripAdvisor, Yelp, or other widely used apps in the area you’re visiting.
3. Clean Your Hands More Often
You must frequently clean your hands, regardless of whether you are on the move or staying at home, but it is particularly crucial to give extra focus tohand-washing practices while on the move.
While on the move, you might come into contact with shared surfaces (such as train seats, button panels, or restroom doors), raising your chances of encountering harmful microorganisms. Make sure to clean your hands using soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds.
4. Verify whether Tap Water Is Appropriate for Consumption
Tap water can be consumed in numerous countries, but it’s not always safe everywhere. Conduct some research prior to your travel and verify whether the tap water is deemed safe to drink—the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers reliable information.
If the water from the faucet at your destination is not safe to consume, then you will need topurchase bottled wateror carry a water purification system such as a Grayl water bottle or LifeStraw (which can help minimize plastic waste and is an excellent choice for those who travel often).
It’s advisable to keep your mouth shut while taking a shower to avoid unintentionally swallowing water that might cause illness. There is some discussion about whether you need to use bottled or filtered water for brushing your teeth, as you shouldn’t be swallowing the water anyway, so go with what makes you feel most at ease.
In numerous countries, it’s typical to find large containers of reusable wooden chopsticks available at restaurants or street food vendors. In addition to being handled by previous customers who sat at your table, the wood may develop cracks, which can make it challenging to thoroughly clean and eliminate all possible bacteria.
It is typical in several of these nations to offer a lime slice to rub on your chopsticks, as the acidic content is thought to eliminate germs. This approach might be somewhat effective, but it is even more secure to use a dedicated cleaning wipe.
6. Choose Prepared Instead of Raw Vegetables
Some medical professionals suggest keeping your intake toprepared vegetables instead of uncooked. It is also advised to consume only fruits and vegetables that have been peeled, instead of eating the outer layers.
The concept is that heat and boiling water can eliminate bacteria and impurities on the food. Stripping the outer layer also minimizes the chance of ingesting germs that could have attached to the fruit or vegetable’s exterior.
This is not always essential in every part of the world. Many individuals globally consume fresh fruits and vegetables and remain in good health. It may be wise to be careful if you are in a region where the water is not safe to drink.
7. Consider Avoiding Meat
In certain locations, you may want to adopt a short-term vegetarian eating plan. Meat can often lead to foodborne illness if not stored properly, such as when it’s exposed to sunlight or not kept cold.
It’s not as if these locations are “unclean” or intentionally trying to make you ill. Certain areas, especially those that are isolated, may face difficulties in properly storing meat.
The same applies to meat that is shown for sale in markets. If you witness this custom, it’s advisable to refrain from consuming meat at eateries in that region.
8. Avoid Moderately Warm Dishes and All-You-Can-Eat Buffets
Exercise caution when visiting buffets, roadside food vendors, or other dining spots where food has been exposed to room temperature for over an hour. Temperatures between 40 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit are classified as the “danger zone.”
Cooked meats and other prepared foods can also be susceptible to rapid bacterial multiplication at these temperatures. If these bacteria proliferate unchecked, they may lead to illness.
What to Try if You Suffer from Food Poisoning While Traveling
Let’s be honest, occasionally things go wrong, and you might end up with food poisoning while on the road. Firstly, don’t blame yourself. It’s possible to get sick no matter where you are, and traveling often brings new chances for germs and contamination. Avoiding all potential exposure can be difficult while still living your life and having a good time on your trip.
Nevertheless, there are several actions you can undertake prior to and throughout your journey to ensure this uncomfortable situation proceeds as smoothly as possible:
- Pack medication:It’s a good idea to consult your doctor before traveling and request some prescription medicines that may be useful if you experience traveler’s diarrhea. These often consist of antibiotics or medications to alleviate nausea; discuss with your physician to get their tailored advice. You can also purchase non-prescription remedies either before your trip or at your travel destination.
- Buy travel insurance:Your built-in credit card insurance or home health insurance may not be enough, as it might not offer medical coverage in your travel location. Seek plans that include hospital visits and health emergencies while abroad. Having insurance can provide peace of mind if you require medical assistance during your journey.
- Get medical attention during your journey:If you are showing signs of food poisoning—particularly persistent diarrhea, vomiting, difficulty keeping fluids or food down, or a fever—don’t wait to see a medical professional until you return home. Identifying food poisoning early can significantly impact your well-being and assist in identifying the source.
- Stay hydrated:Food poisoning can lead to severe dehydration from losing fluids through diarrhea and vomiting, as well as the inability to consume food or liquids. Try to drink a lot of fluids, such as those containing electrolytes. Consult a healthcare professional if you start showing signs of dehydration.
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