Tags: , , , , |Published On: June 18, 2025|

Understand the risks, causes, and what you can do to stay healthy while abroad

Whether you’re flying across the globe or taking a quick domestic getaway, travel can take a toll on your digestive system. From disrupted sleep and dehydration to unfamiliar foods and water sources, your gut often feels the impact first.

What Is Traveler’s Diarrhea?

Traveler’s Diarrhea (TD) is the most common travel-related illness, affecting 30–70% of travelers. It’s typically caused by consuming food or water contaminated with bacteria such as:

  • E. coli (ETEC)

  • Shigella

  • Salmonella

  • Other intestinal pathogens

TD is defined as:

Three or more unformed stools in a 24-hour period, often accompanied by:

  • Abdominal cramping

  • Nausea

  • Bloating

Where Is the Risk Highest?

High-risk regions include:

  • Most of Asia

  • The Middle East

  • Africa

  • Mexico

  • Central and South America

Intermediate-risk areas include:

  • Parts of Eastern Europe

  • South Africa

  • Some Caribbean islands

You may hear Traveler’s Diarrhea referred to by nicknames like Bali Belly, Montezuma’s Revenge, Delhi Belly, or Tourist Trot—but whatever the name, the discomfort is the same.

Why Is TD So Common in Developing Countries?

Several environmental and sanitation factors increase the risk:

  • Contaminated water supplies

  • Unreliable refrigeration due to power issues

  • Poor hand hygiene in food service settings

  • Cross-contamination in food prep

  • Improper storage of cooked foods

  • Unpasteurized dairy products

  • Crops fertilized with human waste

These conditions lead to higher levels of bacteria in the environment—and greater risk for travelers unaccustomed to the local microbes.

How to Stay Safe

While this post focuses on awareness, we can also guide you in choosing the right products and practices to help prevent TD on your trip.

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