You might be suffering from traveller’s diarrhoea. It affects about 20-50% of travellers and the most common source of exposure to disease-causing microorganisms is ingestion of contaminated drinking water and food. This will disrupt the gut microflora balance, resulting in an increased frequency of bowel movement accompanied by abdominal cramps, nausea and fever. The onset of traveller’s diarrhoea is usually within the first week of travel but can occur at any time during the trip or after returning home.

You can reduce the risk of traveller’s diarrhoea by practising good hygiene and take preventive measures while travelling. Drink bottled water that is in sealed, tamper-proof container instead of self-prepared beverages at restaurants. Well cooked and packaged foods are usually safe but avoid eating raw or undercooked meat. A more sensible way would be to maintain a healthy gut.

Scientific studies have demonstrated that probiotics may prevent gastrointestinal problems. During the onset of traveller’s diarrhoea, probiotics help to reduce symptoms and improve the condition by replenishing friendly bacteria in the gut. For those taking antibiotics, the use of probiotics helps restore the gut microflora balance. Thus, you may consider carrying probiotics along when you travel the next time. Choose one with the right strain (Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM) that has been clinically proven and refrigerate for maximum potency.

H. pylori infection is a condition that occurs when the bacterium, Helicobacter pylori thrives in the stomach or the first part of small intestine, duodenum. This infection can cause chronic gastritis and lead to peptic ulcer disease by damaging the protective mucous lining of the stomach and duodenum. Therefore, adequate therapy for patients with H. pylori is important in the treatment and prevention of peptic ulcers. The primary goal of therapy for H. pylori infection is to eradicate or destroy the bacterium and antibiotics are usually prescribed for this reason.

Apart from prescribed antibiotics, current researches also suggest that probiotics (friendly bacteria) particularly Lactobacillus reuteri Protectis (ATCC 55730) may be included as part of the standard therapy for H.pylori infection. Besides replenishing the gut microfora balance after an antibiotic treatment, Lactobacillus reuteri Protectis also reduces the bacterial load of H.pylori and the occurrence of gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal distention.

Frequent consumption of fruit and vegetables appears to protect against infection with H.pylori. In contrast, contaminated food and poor sanitary conditions may increase the risk of infection. Thus, individuals with H.pylori infection must practice good personal hygiene and consume food that is prepared in a clean and hygienic environment. Home-cooked food is the ideal choice for meals.