Summer is well and truly here, and that probably means you're planning to escape the hustle and bustle with an epic vacation. Whether you're heading to the beaches of Greece and Portugal or keeping it chill at one of BC's stunning National Parks, you'll need to prepare.
Now, we're not just talking about packing your holiday clothes and filling up your Kindle with the latest great reads. We mean taking care of your health.
We all know that there are risks of becoming ill when you're away, but research also shows that many people suffer from post-vacation sickness.
So, if you want to return from your trip feeling refreshed, revitalized and ready to take on the world, check out our top travel health tips.
Post-Vacation Sickness: Myth or Fact?
According to Weill Cornell Medicine, 80% of people report post-vacation sickness symptoms, including gastric issues and flu viruses. Why does this happen? Well, there are many theories, with the most common including:
- Climate Changes: Going from a country with cold or warm temperatures to one with hot weather means your body has to adjust to the climate. When you return to your country, it can cause flu-like symptoms.
- Immune System: Staying in a crowded hotel and not following your usual workout routine can compromise your immune system, making it harder to fight infections.
- Air Travel: Airplanes can increase your risks of infections due to the excess bacteria. The humidity changes can also impact your airways, leading to sore throats and blocked nasal passages.
- Leisure Sickness: Enjoying a week or two away and then returning to your daily routine can be stressful. Leisure sickness is a psychological condition that can produce physical symptoms.
Essential Supplements For Your Vacation
Supplements might not seem as important as your clothes or sunscreen, but taking the right vitamins and minerals on vacation can protect your health and reduce the risks of developing an infection.
When deciding which supplements to take, ask yourself the following questions:
- Are you going somewhere with plenty of sun? Or are you heading to a cooler climate?
- Will you be doing a lot of activities while you're away?
- Does your hotel cater to your dietary needs?
Let's take a look at some vital supplements for your holiday health.
Probiotics
Probiotics are powerhouses for gut health, supporting digestion and enhancing mood. They contain friendly bacteria that protect the gut from harmful bacteria, often associated with gastric conditions and poor diets.
Taking probiotics while away can prevent gastric issues and protect you from getting sick. The Natural Factors Multi Probiotic contains an incredible 12 billion live cultures, giving your gut a healthy dose of goodness.
Taking the kids away? Keep them happy with Genuine Health Probiotics, a delicious lemonade flavour.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is packed full of antioxidants, which boost your immune system. While it doesn't directly treat colds and flu viruses, you'll have higher defences against bacteria, reducing your chances of getting sick.
Make low Vitamin C levels a thing of the past with an affordable supply from Natural Factors and enjoy optimal health. Not a fan of capsules? Keep hydrated and get a healthy dose of antioxidants with the Ener-C sachets.
Magnesium
Travelling long distances can interrupt your sleeping patterns and lead to excess stress. Magnesium supplements are renowned for their ability to prevent stress and support the production of melatonin.
Sitting for long periods of time or not drinking enough water can also cause muscle cramps and tension. Taking a Natural Factors Magnesium Bisglycinate supplement can reduce the risks of cramps and relieve them.
Multivitamins
One of the best ways to ensure you remain healthy on vacation is to take a multivitamin supplement. They're ultra-convenient and won't take up much room in your suitcase. Better still, you can choose specialist blends of multivitamins that suit your family's needs.
Adults can take Whole Earth & Sea Multivitamins for Men or the Women's Multivitamin and Mineral blend. Younger kids will love the allKiDz Junior Multivitamins drops, which have a mixed fruit flavour.
Other Tips For Healthy Travels
Taking supplements on vacation is the first step in enjoying a fantastic trip without worrying about your health. However, keeping your diet healthy and exercising will help you transition smoothly when you return to everyday life.
Embrace the Local Lifestyle
It's so easy to head to the local burger joint and enjoy fast food while you're away, but these tourist traps won't do anything for your well-being. Instead of getting reeled in by tourist traps, try to live like the locals.
Countries have amazing cuisine that will tantalize your taste buds and ensure you remain healthy. Look for traditional restaurants and ask the locals for recommendations; you might just find your new favourite dish.
Explore on Foot
Wherever possible, explore on foot. Of course, common sense applies here as nobody wants to walk in a strange neighbourhood when it's dark. However, if you're sightseeing or exploring during the daytime, why not immerse yourself in the local culture?
Walking instead of taking cabs or other forms of transport keeps you active and means you can work off those sneaky treats.
Stay Hydrated
Nobody wants to deal with the dreaded vacation constipation, so keep yourself hydrated with plenty of water. Even if you have an all-inclusive package with cocktails on demand, ensure you drink enough water during the day.
It's easy to forget hydration when exploring and having a great time, but not looking after your body could lead to dehydration. Setting alarms on your phone and drinking water with meals can help you maintain optimal hydration levels.
Packing some electrolytes will keep your cells healthy.
Beat the Stress
Going on vacation is the perfect time to unwind and release stress. Sure, there's sightseeing and adventures, but don't forget to enjoy some relaxation. Whether lying on the beach reading a book or spending quality time in the spa, remember to focus on your needs.
Some vacation spots have yoga and pilates or hobbies like golf. Whatever you enjoy doing, going on vacation is the perfect time to let stress go and put the smartphone away.
Watch Your Alcohol and Sugar Intake
OK, holidays are a great time to sneak some treats and sample the local drinks. After all, you're going away to have fun. But, instead of over-indulging, make sure you limit your alcohol and sugar intake to maintain optimal health.
Remember, your liver deserves a great time, too. Drinking too much can restrict your ability to enjoy excursions.
Try to Stick to Your Morning and Evening Routine
It's easy to get caught up in a different culture or environment, but maintaining consistency with your health foundations is key to retaining habits that took a long time to build. Exercise, eat healthily, and get enough sleep to function the next day.
Doing this will give you plenty of fun without worrying about a post-vacation comedown.
Ready to Enjoy Your Travels?
Now that you know how to stay healthy while on vacation, it's time to book your flight and prepare for a fantastic break. Shopping with Lifestyle Markets gives you excellent discounts on supplements without compromising on quality.
If you need any help choosing the right supplements for your needs, please feel free to contact our customer service team.
