Traveling this summer?
Don't get derailed by digestive distress

edited by Madelyn Miller, the TravelLady

Summer is here - and for many, long weekends and sweltering temps inspire wanderlust and a sudden urge to relax on a far-away beach with a frosty beverage. While traveling is a great way to renew and recharge, the long flights, time zone changes and disruption of typical diet and exercise schedules can be anything but relaxing, and can even cause digestive discomfort.

"It is tempting to throw routine out the window while traveling, whether it is to sleep in and skip a morning workout, to choose dehydrating beverages over water, or to grab fast food or a high-calorie dinner out instead of what you'd normally choose," says leading gastroenterologist and MiraLAX spokesperson Dr. Cynthia Yoshida. "Unfortunately, doing this can cause unpleasant digestive problems, from bikini bloat to occasional constipation."

Fortunately, says Dr. Yoshida, there are some easy tricks that travelers can use to help keep digestive distress from ruining a trip.

Drink up. Dehydration can quickly throw your system out of sorts, so be sure to drink sufficient fluids when on the road. Take a reusable water bottle with you, and fill it with a non-carbonated and nonalcoholic beverage such as water or unsweetened iced tea that is caffeine free.

Dine before you depart. From greasy airport pizza to mayo-laden in-flight sandwiches, air travel can be the most difficult time to get a decent meal. Many airports are now adding natural food stores to the concourse. Try to find one and pick up a selection of healthy, high-fiber snacks before boarding to stave off temptation. Try whole-grain granola bars.

Get a move on. Even if you are pressed for time, try to find a way to incorporate light to moderate exercise into your routine. If you are experiencing digestive discomfort, jump-start your metabolism before heading out to start your day with a short burst of exercise, such as a walk around your hotel or jumping jacks before heading into the shower in the morning.

Carry on some OTC relief. If you still find yourself suffering from occasional constipation, you can still salvage your trip with an over-the-counter remedy. Dr. Yoshida urges consumers to educate themselves that not all laxatives are created equal: Some laxatives may have harsh side effects like urgency or cramping that can even further disrupt a trip. She recommends MiraLAX laxative, which works effectively, but without harsh side effects. It naturally balances the water in your digestive system and is available in convenient single-dose packets that are easy to toss into a carry-on.

For more suggestions on ways to help with digestive distress on the road, visit MiraLAX.com.

Madelyn Miller is a travel and food writer. Read her stories on www.travellady.com, www.carladynews.com, www.yogayaya.com, www.cocktailatlas.com, www.chocolateatlas.com, www.teatAtlas.com, www.coffeeatlas.com