Preventing Travel Constipation

Ever notice how constipation always seems to hit while on vacation? Why? You ask. Well, it's most likely a combination of stress, a low fiber diet, lack of exercise, and inadequate water intake. Here are a few ways to prevent constipation while you travel.

• Eat a high fiber diet before you begin your travels.
• Pack a few high fiber, high water content snacks such as apples, pears, carrots and celery.
• Drink lots of water!
• Limit the amount of salt, fat and caffeine you consume.
• Opt for whole grain breads and cereals rather than enriched cereals and breads.
• Eat a serving of flax seed meal daily.
• Sprinkle wheat germ on your cereal, oatmeal or toast or blend it into a smoothie.
• Chew a couple of papaya tablets (found at most vitamin stores).
• Munch on figs or prunes.
• Do your best to get some exercise every day. At minimum try to go for a 30 minute walk.
• Avoid unbalanced meals such as steak only types of meals that are high in protein and fat, but low in carbs and fiber.
• Eat a serving of yogurt daily.
• Get a good night's sleep.

Follow these recommendations and your vacation will be much nicer!