BALI BELLY…REALLY???
It’s been a while since the notorious “Bali Belly” has been grabbing headlines around here. Maybe it’s off to some other tourists’ destinations in this wide world of ours. Nevertheless, now seems like the perfect opportunity to delve into what exactly Bali Belly is. I did some research and found some interesting facts about it. Let’s dive in!
Whenever the tourist season kicks off annually many people from developed countries come to ‘paradise’ which happens to be developing countries. Thus, it is also referred to as ‘travellers’ diarrhoea or gastroenteritis. The risk for travellers is high in developing countries where sanitation and hygiene standards are poor. For instance, in Asia, Africa, Middle East, and Latin America. Previous studies shows that when travelling to tropical destinations 30-50% of tourists will experience the stomach bug. So, it’s a worldwide thing…not only in Bali.
Good news is that health officials and doctors are on the same page when referring to causes for this affliction. Causes of Bali Belly or gastroenteritis? It’s as simple as eating contaminated food and drinking water. These micro-organisms trigger diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting and fever.
Most common culprits include E. coli, salmonella, and other viruses. Street food, while delicious and adventurous to try, is high risk. Food preparation lacks the standard sanitation and hygienic practices. And your body has yet to adjust to the new surroundings, new food, and new bacteria! Not to panic, though. The condition usually clears up in a few days with rest, over-the-counter diarrhoea medications and rehydration solutions. Yes, you’ll lose a few precious days off on your vacation. For more serious symptoms please seek proper medical help.
Why is it called Bali Belly? First, it’s not a medical term per se. It’s a common phrase among travellers who have been travelling to Bali and experiencing upset stomach, diarrhoea and other discomforts while vacationing in Bali. Not fair, really. It can occur anywhere else in the world. Other names for this affliction is Delhi Belly and Montezuma’s Revenge.
So…let’s see if we have a better understanding of Bali or Delhi Belly or Montezuma’s Revenge.
Causes :
- Caused by eating or drinking food or water contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
- This is due to poor hygiene practices in food preparation
- Drinking water from untreated sources
- Too much exotic food too soon and a too much alcohol is another less known factors
Prevention :
- Choose wisely where and what you eat
- Choose restaurants and street vendors with high standard of cleanliness
- Drink bottled water
- Go easy in consuming food and alcohol even though you’re on vacation
By taking these easy precautions and general good hygiene you can minimize the risk and have an illness free vacation anywhere…anytime. Happy Holidays
BALI BELLY…REALLY???
It’s been a while since the notorious “Bali Belly” has been grabbing headlines around here. Maybe it’s off to some other tourists’ destinations in this wide world of ours. Nevertheless, now seems like the perfect opportunity to delve into what exactly Bali Belly is. I did some research and found some interesting facts about it. Let’s dive in!
Whenever the tourist season kicks off annually many people from developed countries come to ‘paradise’ which happens to be developing countries. Thus, it is also referred to as ‘travellers’ diarrhoea or gastroenteritis. The risk for travellers is high in developing countries where sanitation and hygiene standards are poor. For instance, in Asia, Africa, Middle East, and Latin America. Previous studies shows that when travelling to tropical destinations 30-50% of tourists will experience the stomach bug. So, it’s a worldwide thing…not only in Bali.
Good news is that health officials and doctors are on the same page when referring to causes for this affliction. Causes of Bali Belly or gastroenteritis? It’s as simple as eating contaminated food and drinking water. These micro-organisms trigger diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting and fever.
Most common culprits include E. coli, salmonella, and other viruses. Street food, while delicious and adventurous to try, is high risk. Food preparation lacks the standard sanitation and hygienic practices. And your body has yet to adjust to the new surroundings, new food, and new bacteria! Not to panic, though. The condition usually clears up in a few days with rest, over-the-counter diarrhoea medications and rehydration solutions. Yes, you’ll lose a few precious days off on your vacation. For more serious symptoms please seek proper medical help.
Why is it called Bali Belly? First, it’s not a medical term per se. It’s a common phrase among travellers who have been travelling to Bali and experiencing upset stomach, diarrhoea and other discomforts while vacationing in Bali. Not fair, really. It can occur anywhere else in the world. Other names for this affliction is Delhi Belly and Montezuma’s Revenge.
So…let’s see if we have a better understanding of Bali or Delhi Belly or Montezuma’s Revenge.
Causes :
- Caused by eating or drinking food or water contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
- This is due to poor hygiene practices in food preparation
- Drinking water from untreated sources
- Too much exotic food too soon and a too much alcohol is another less known factors
Prevention :
- Choose wisely where and what you eat
- Choose restaurants and street vendors with high standard of cleanliness
- Drink bottled water
- Go easy in consuming food and alcohol even though you’re on vacation
By taking these easy precautions and general good hygiene you can minimize the risk and have an illness free vacation anywhere…anytime. Happy Holidays