Copyright dailyrecord
Countless people jet off on holiday, but there are simple guidelines travellers might wish to observe if they want to maintain their wellbeing whilst airborne . Holidaymakers frequently fret about jet lag, but there's another airborne ailment many don't discuss, and it's called travel constipation. From unpleasant bloating to sluggish digestion, some chemists say flying creates the ideal conditions for digestive issues but, with proper preparation, it needn't spoil your getaway. Indeed, if you're a regular flyer, there's a straightforward method to maintain your health when travelling by air . Chemist Seema Khatri of Roseway Labs revealed: "Airplane cabins are pressurised to the equivalent of around 6,000 to 8,000 feet above sea level. That lower pressure makes gases in your digestive system expand, which is why so many people feel bloated in the air. "Add in dry cabin air, sitting still for hours and a disrupted eating routine, and your gut slows right down. It's no surprise constipation is one of the most common post-flight complaints." She noted that carbonated beverages, pulses, garlic and onions are common triggers for mid-flight bloating, as they produce gas which expands further at high altitude. Alcohol, meanwhile, not only causes dehydration but can aggravate the digestive system, worsening the situation. According to Khatri, many people unknowingly make choices that worsen the problem. "Skipping water in favour of coffee or wine is one of the biggest mistakes," she added. "Both dehydrate you further. Another common mistake is ignoring the urge to use the plane toilets, but holding it in just makes things harder later. "Heavy, processed meals before or during flights are another trigger. Fast food and sugary snacks often replace fibre-rich meals when people are travelling, and that low fibre intake makes constipation far more likely." To keep things moving, the expert revealed some top tips. Khatri's leading pharmacist-approved strategies include: Khatri added: "Hydrate properly in the days before flying, keep meals light and fibre-rich and avoid alcohol where you can. Sticking to your normal sleep and bathroom routine also helps reduce disruption. With just a little preparation, you can save yourself a very uncomfortable holiday start." She suggested that packing snacks like oat bars can help, as they provide a fibre boost without causing bloating. Nuts and seeds are also recommended as they are filling, light and easy to digest. In addition, bananas and dried fruit are good options to include in your travel snack pack. Khatri also highlighted a few common mistakes to avoid, which include
