Natural Supplements I Cannot Travel Without
/
Traveling can provide
some of the best experiences of your life,
but we don’t usually think about being jet-lagged, experimenting with new foods, and being exposed to new bacteria and bugs. For me, a big component to make sure I do not get sick abroad includes taking regular natural supplements and having various others handy as needed.
Being holistically minded, I first try to prevent illness from happening, then try natural measures if I am starting to feel something come on. If all fails then I hit my handy first-aid kit. Please note, supplements are not necessary, so do not feel the need to go out and spend a ton of money. I have just noticed over the years what works for me to stay fresh, energized, and healthy abroad!
Please remember these are general tips only. While they are written by a qualified nurse, they are no replacement for a consultation with your travel health nurse or physician. Do not introduce any new medications or supplements without speaking to a qualified healthcare professional, especially if you are pregnant or have pre-existing conditions. Discuss any changes, new practices, and individual health concerns based on your personal history with a qualified medical professional before your trip.
my supplements I travel with
Everyday:
Green Juice Packets- This is a great alternative when you may not be eating as many fresh greens as normal, I start the day with this in a bottle of clean water (hydration is ALWAYS key).
Probiotics- keep the good gut bacteria in line and help you fight off any potential bad ones coming in (CDC, 2017). I get chewable ones that don't need to be refrigerated while traveling.
Vitamin B12- When consumption of animal foods is very low or absent, the lack of B12 in plant foods makes it’s introduction essential (Rizzo, 2015). I don't eat meat regularly anyways, however in countries where you need to be careful about the meat, this will help get your adequate amount.
Chlorella- this nutrient dense algae has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties as it removes toxins and supports the immune system (Rani, 2018).
As needed:
Essential Oils- I do not leave my house without the Sage Wellness Pocket Pharmacy. It includes five roll-on essential oil blends for head, pain, cough, stomach and stress. It’s a bit pricey, but it’s worth it and last forever. I usually cannot leave the house without it, (not sponsored).
Vitamin C- I'll usually try to pill or packet form with water preventatively a few days before I leave, on the plane, and a few days after. They are nice to have if you start feeling under the weather to decrease the severity of a general cough or cold that may arise (Hemilä, 2013).
Magnesium- to help with constipation that is very common during long travel days, flights and new food (Bothe, 2017). Check the label for dose and take before bed to give the night to kick in. Say hello to healthy bowel movements in the morning.
Ginger Tea- has many benefits but I make sure to bring this abroad to help any indigestion, heartburn, nausea, or diarrhea (Shahrajabian, 2019)
Other Pro Tips
+You can usually carry on medications and supplements, but be careful with bulk powders when traveling. Keep in original packaging.
+Stick with pills instead of liquids to prevent a big mess, nobody wants liquids all over your jeans, especially when packing lightly
+Again, I do not recommend introducing any new medications or supplements without speaking to a qualified healthcare professional, especially if you are pregnant or have pre-existing conditions. If given clearance, try supplements and medications at home before you leave to ensure safety.
There are plenty of other natural tips to support you abroad, however I try to stick with ones that are supported in the data. It’s not worth drastically changing your routine and/or veering too far off the path, especially in a foreign place.
I am always looking for other tips to make travel smoother, so please feel free to share what natural supplements help you abroad! Please comment below or share with me on social media. Bon Voyage!
xoxo,
Jac
Sources:
Bothe G, Eur J Nutr. (2017). Efficacy and safety of a natural mineral water rich in magnesium and sulphate for bowel function: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Mar;56(2):491-499. doi: 10.1007/s00394-015-1094-8.
Hemilä H, Chalker E. (2013). Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013 Jan 31(1):CD000980.
Mohamad Hesam Shahrajabian, Wenli Sun & Qi Cheng (2019): Clinical aspects and health benefits of ginger (Zingiber officinale) in both traditional Chinese medicine and modern industry, Acta Agriculturae Scandinavica, Section B — Soil & Plant Science, DOI: 10.1080/09064710.2019.1606930
Rani, Komal. (2018). A comprehensive review on chlorella- its composition, health benefits, market and regulatory scenario. The Pharma Innovation Journal; 7(7): 584-589.
