Inside view of airport

If you have experienced sickness after a long trip, you are not alone. We see many patients who have trouble traveling to far off destinations or even closer to home. The most common complaints are gastrointestinal distress, sleep issues and infections. We have compiled a list of simple things we know work well for many people when they fly or drive.

Here are some simple points to keep in when you are traveling for the holiday season:

1. Stay Hydrated!

Airplanes are notorious for very dry air. Additionally, when you are in a car or plane it can be easy to forget to drink. Skip the coffee or soda and go for water. Add some electrolytes for taste and additional salts.

2. Use Ear Plugs/Noise Canceling Headphones on the Plane

Noise and vibration on an airplane is one of the main causes of fatigue. Ask any commercial pilot and he or she will agree. Using earplugs can help drown out the constant drone of engines and keep you from feeling drained and exhausted.

3. Take Antioxidants and Vitamin C

When you are in confined spaces with others, you are more likely to be exposed to communicable illness. Vitamin C and other antioxidants and herbal formulas can help to reduce your chances of getting sick while traveling. We use EHB and Power Paks and recommend Xlear Nasal Wash as well.

4. Get an Immune Drip

High-dose intravenous vitamins and minerals including Vitamin C, B, and other antioxidants and minerals can really help. Immune Drips can be beneficial before or after a trip.

5. Eat Healthy Foods

When we travel, we have a tendency to eat what is provided or move towards more processed and unhealthy foods on-the-go. The result can be stomach upset, acid reflux and low energy. Save your GI tract by carrying organic apples, nuts, celery, bananas, salted cucumbers, rice crackers, etc. There are lots of choices.

6. Take a High Quality Probiotic

Probiotics, or beneficial bacteria, have been very well studied. They help maintain a proper balance of intestinal flora and keep your digestion regular. A healthy gut does a lot to modulate the immune system and can mean the difference between sickness and health. This is especially important when you are exposed to unfamiliar foods and surfaces that may not be clean. We recommend Orthobiotic as an effective, non-refrigerated formula.

7. Get Up and Move Around

Sitting for long periods of time can make you feel stiff, sore and exhausted. It can also increase the incidence of serious blood clots in some individuals. Make sure to get up and stretch periodically, or pull over and stop at a rest area.

8. Get Rest

When traveling to new and exciting places, it is easy to overextend yourself by skipping sleep. Make sure to rest as needed and plan your schedule accordingly. Sleep gives the body an opportunity to repair damaged tissues, while making you more resilient to infection.

For more information or to make an appointment, please call us at (949) 600-5100