Best Probiotic For Travel
Travelling can be an exciting, yet stressful experience for many people. Whether it’s a short domestic flight, a transatlantic journey or backpacking around the world, our bodies can undergo a lot of changes as we adapt to new environments, time zones and diets. This is why taking probiotics during travel is crucial to keeping your gut healthy. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how probiotics work and how to choose the best probiotic for travel.
Why You Need Probiotics When Traveling
When travelling, our bodies can be exposed to unfamiliar food, water and environments which can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in our gut. This can lead to digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas and diarrhea. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are found naturally in our gut and can help to restore the balance of good bacteria and reduce the risk of digestive issues.
Additionally, probiotics have been shown to boost the immune system, which can be especially important when traveling to areas with different germs and viruses. By strengthening the immune system, probiotics can help prevent illnesses and infections.
Furthermore, probiotics have been linked to improved mental health. Studies have shown that the gut and brain are connected, and that the balance of bacteria in the gut can affect mood and cognitive function. By taking probiotics while traveling, you may be able to reduce stress and anxiety and improve overall mental well-being.
What Are Probiotics and How Do They Work?
Probiotics are live microorganisms such as bacteria or yeasts that can provide health benefits. They work by colonizing the gut and creating a protective barrier against harmful bacteria, viruses and parasites. Probiotics can also produce enzymes and acids that help to break down food and absorb nutrients more efficiently.
Research has shown that probiotics can also have a positive impact on mental health. The gut is often referred to as the "second brain" due to the strong connection between the gut and the central nervous system. Probiotics can help to regulate the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which can improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
The Benefits of Taking Probiotics While Traveling
There are many benefits to taking probiotics while traveling. They can help to support your immune system, improve digestion, reduce bloating and gas, prevent diarrhea and even improve mental health. Studies have shown that probiotics can help to reduce the symptoms of stress and anxiety which can be beneficial while traveling.
Another benefit of taking probiotics while traveling is that they can help to prevent and treat infections. When traveling to new places, you may be exposed to different bacteria and viruses that your body is not used to. Probiotics can help to strengthen your immune system and fight off these infections.
In addition, probiotics can also help to alleviate symptoms of jet lag. Jet lag can disrupt your sleep patterns and leave you feeling tired and groggy. Probiotics can help to regulate your circadian rhythm and improve the quality of your sleep, making it easier to adjust to a new time zone.
How to Choose the Right Probiotic for Your Travel Needs
Choosing the right probiotic for your travel needs can be challenging due to the vast array of products available on the market. When selecting a probiotic, it’s important to consider the following factors:
- The strain of bacteria
- The number of live cultures
- The delivery method (capsules, tablets, powders or drinks)
- The expiry date and storage conditions
Another important factor to consider when choosing a probiotic for travel is the destination and purpose of your trip. If you are traveling to a location with a high risk of foodborne illness, such as developing countries, it may be beneficial to choose a probiotic with strains that have been shown to improve gut health and boost immunity. Additionally, if you are traveling for a specific purpose, such as a sports competition or endurance event, you may want to choose a probiotic that has been shown to improve athletic performance and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal distress during exercise.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Travel Probiotic
When selecting a probiotic for travel, you should consider additional factors such as the length of your trip, your destination, your dietary restrictions and any health conditions you may have. For example, if you’re going on a long-haul flight, you may want to choose a probiotic that’s travel-friendly and doesn’t require refrigeration.
The Different Types of Probiotics Available for Travelers
There are several types of probiotics available for travelers including Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Saccharomyces boulardii and Streptococcus thermophilus. Each type of probiotic has different health benefits and can target specific conditions such as gut inflammation, irritable bowel syndrome and traveler’s diarrhea.
Lactobacillus is a type of probiotic that is commonly found in fermented foods such as yogurt and kefir. It can help improve digestion and boost the immune system. Bifidobacterium, on the other hand, is known for its ability to reduce inflammation in the gut and improve bowel movements.
Saccharomyces boulardii is a yeast-based probiotic that can help prevent traveler’s diarrhea and other digestive issues. It is particularly effective when taken before and during travel. Streptococcus thermophilus is another type of probiotic that can help improve digestion and boost the immune system. It is commonly found in dairy products such as cheese and yogurt.
Top Brands of Probiotics for Travelers on the Market Today
Some of the top brands of probiotics for travelers on the market today include Culturelle, Garden of Life, Renew Life, and Align. These brands offer a variety of probiotic strains, delivery methods and dosages to suit different travel needs.
Culturelle is a popular brand of probiotics that is known for its effectiveness in preventing traveler's diarrhea. It contains Lactobacillus GG, a strain of bacteria that has been clinically proven to reduce the risk of diarrhea caused by travel. Garden of Life, on the other hand, offers a range of probiotics that are specifically designed for different types of travel, such as air travel or backpacking.
Renew Life is another top brand of probiotics for travelers, offering a variety of probiotic strains that can help boost the immune system and support digestive health. Align, on the other hand, is a brand that is known for its patented strain of bacteria called Bifidobacterium infantis 35624, which has been shown to help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Reviews of the Best Probiotics for Different Travel Scenarios
Here are some of the best probiotics for different travel scenarios:
Culturelle Probiotics Digestive Health Daily Probiotic Capsules
This probiotic is ideal for short city breaks or domestic flights as it contains 10 billion live bacteria and requires no refrigeration. It also offers a combination of Lactobacillus GG and Inulin which can support a healthy digestive system.
Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Once Daily Men's Probiotics
Designed for men's digestive health, this probiotic is perfect for longer trips or backpacking as it contains 50 billion live cultures and can support healthy nutrient absorption. It features a blend of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis and Bifidobacterium bifidum strains to support colon health.
Renew Life Ultimate Flora Extra Care Probiotic Go Pack
This pack of probiotics is perfect for international travel or long-haul flights as it contains 50 billion live cultures and features 12 specially selected strains to support digestive and immune health. The probiotics also come in a travel-friendly blister pack that doesn't require refrigeration.
It's important to note that while probiotics can be helpful for maintaining digestive health during travel, they should not be relied upon as a sole solution. It's also important to stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and practice good hygiene to prevent illness while traveling.
How to Take and Store Your Travel Probiotic for Maximum Effectiveness
To ensure maximum effectiveness of your travel probiotic, it's important to take it at the right time and store it correctly. Most probiotics are best taken with food and water to help them reach the gut. It's also important to store your probiotic in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.
Another important factor to consider when taking your travel probiotic is the timing of your dose. It's recommended to take your probiotic at the same time every day to maintain consistency and ensure that the beneficial bacteria are continuously replenished in your gut. Some people prefer to take their probiotic in the morning, while others find it more effective to take it at night before bed.
Additionally, it's important to be aware of any potential interactions between your travel probiotic and other medications or supplements you may be taking. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement regimen, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking prescription medications.
Understanding the Science Behind the Best Probiotic Strains for Travelers
The science behind probiotics can be complex, but it's important to understand which strains are best for specific travel scenarios. For example, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains are ideal for digestive health, while Saccharomyces boulardii and Streptococcus thermophilus can support immune function and reduce traveler's diarrhea.
It's also important to consider the dosage and timing of probiotic supplements when traveling. Taking a higher dose of probiotics before and during travel can help boost the immune system and prevent digestive issues. Additionally, taking probiotics at the same time each day can help maintain a consistent level of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
It's worth noting that not all probiotic supplements are created equal. Look for products that contain strains that have been clinically studied for their effectiveness in supporting digestive and immune health. It's also important to choose a reputable brand that uses high-quality ingredients and follows strict manufacturing standards.
The Dos and Don'ts of Taking Probiotics During Your Travels
When taking probiotics during your travels, it's important to follow these dos and don'ts:
- Do take your probiotic with food and water
- Do store your probiotic in a cool, dry place
- Do choose a probiotic with the right strain for your needs
- Don't exceed the recommended dosage
- Don't take probiotics with hot or acidic drinks
- Don't rely solely on probiotics to prevent traveler's diarrhea
Tips and Tricks for Keeping Your Gut Healthy on the Road
Aside from taking probiotics, there are other ways to keep your gut healthy during your travels such as:
- Staying hydrated
- Eating a balanced diet
- Avoiding foods that may trigger digestive issues
- Maintaining good hygiene
- Getting plenty of sleep
Travelling can be stressful, but taking probiotics can help to support your digestive and immune health. By considering the different factors discussed in this article and following the dos and don'ts, you can choose the best probiotic for your travel needs and enjoy a comfortable and healthy trip.
