Should You Take Probiotics Before Travel?

You should take probiotics before travel because new environments and eating unfamiliar foods can negatively impact gut health and compromise the immune system.

This can cause a gastrointestinal illness and ruin your vacation with conditions like travellers diarrhea which is a condition characterized by loose stools and gastrointestinal discomfort that occurs when individuals consume contaminated food or water while traveling.

Probiotics support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut and help maintain a healthy digestive system and they can help safeguard gut health and prevent digestive issues while traveling.

What is Traveler's Diarrhea?

Traveler's diarrhea is a common problem experienced by 30%-70% of people while on vacation, usually due to bacterial contamination in food or water according to the CDC.

Bacterial pathogens, such as enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli, Campylobacter jejuni, Shigella and Salmonella, are the most common culprits but viruses and parasites can also be responsible.

Symptoms of traveler's usually manifest within 6 to 24 hours after a bacterial or viral infection. In the case of an intestinal parasite infection, it may take one to three weeks for symptoms too manifest. 

The duration of traveler's diarrhea is less than a week, with most people improving within one to two days. This can vary depending on the individual and the specific causative agent. It is important to stay hydrated and seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.

Can Probiotics Prevent Traveler's Diarrhea?

Saccharomyces Boulardii can prevent traveler's diarrhea and is the best probiotic strain for travel according to research. A 2019 study authored by LV McFarland, found Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745 showed a significant reduction in the incidence of traveler's diarrhea 

The effectiveness of other probiotic strains, such as L. rhamnosus GG and L. acidophilus, was not as conclusive proving that not all probiotics are best for travel. More research is needed to explore the efficacy of different probiotic strains and prebiotics in preventing travelers' diarrhea.

Saccharomyces boulardii is a probiotic yeast strain commonly used for its potential benefits in supporting digestive health and reducing the incidence of conditions like traveler's diarrhea but should be avoided by pregnant women.

How To Travel With Probiotics That Need Refrigeration?

To travel with probiotics you should place your capsules in a sealed container inside an insulated box. An insulated box provides protection from heat by creating a barrier that minimizes the transfer of heat between the external environment and the contents inside. It typically consists of insulating materials, such as foam or reflective materials, which reduce heat conduction and radiation.

This insulation helps to maintain a stable temperature inside the box, preventing heat from entering or escaping, and thereby protecting the contents from external heat sources when traveling to hotter countries. If your probiotic is shelf-stable, contains Bacillus coagulans or Saccharomyces boulardi then you do not have to use an insulated box.

Can You Take Probiotics on a Plane?

Yes, The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), states that you can take probiotics on a plane both as carry on and in your checked luggage without declaring them to TSA agents.

Should You Take Probiotics Before Going To Bali?

You should take probiotics at least 14-days before travelling to Bali to protect against Bali Belly which is another name for Traveler's Diarrhea. Its symptoms include cramping, nausea, dizziness, fever and lethargy which can last for up to 5 days.

Should You Take Probiotics Before Going To India?

You should take probiotics Before traveling to Mexico to avoid Delhi Belly a nick name that inspired Bali Belly. When traveling to India, there is a >60% likelihood that you will experience Traveler's diarrhea during a 2 week trip according to the CDC.

Should You Take Probiotics Before Going To Mexico?

You should take probiotics before traveling to Mexico as it is known for being a high destination for travelers diarrhea according to the Government of Canada. Traveler's diarrhea in Mexico has the same symptoms has Delhi and Bali belly.

What To Look For In A Travel Probiotic?

Look for a reputable brand that offers shelf-stable probiotics that can be packed without refrigeration and start taking a high-quality, multi-strain probiotic at least two weeks before traveling to prepare the gut for the trip.

Taking Saccharomyces boulardii probiotics before, during, and after vacation can improve gut health, digestion, and overall well-being, allowing for a more enjoyable trip.