Tips for Avoiding Food Poisoning When Traveling

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Excerpts Taken From Dr. Mark Pimentel's New Book, "A New IBS Solution"

LOS ANGELS, CA -- (MARKET WIRE) -- July 05, 2006 -- Food poisoning is becoming an increasingly common occurrence due to the fact that people are traveling and eating out more than they used to.

Symptoms of food poisoning can vary, ranging from onset within 30 to 60 minutes after eating (usually in cases of chemical contaminants in food) to up to 12 to 48 hours in cases of bacterial food poisoning. Many cases of diarrhea are due to food poisoning, although this may not be recognized at the time. Other symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, and, in very severe cases, collapse and shock from dehydration.

According to Gastroenterologist Dr. Mark Pimentel, author of the new bestselling book "A New IBS Solution," the following tips to minimize your risk of contracting food poisoning:

-- Avoid eating at street vendors which are common in foreign countries.

-- Avoid salad bars where food can be set out all day and exposed to a
host of potentially food poisoning microorganisms.

-- Heat, Heat, Heat. Hot food is safe. Room temperature is an absolute
no.

-- When dining out, select restaurants that have a reputation for
cleanliness. Code violations for restaurants that violate good sanitary
standards are often posted in your local newspaper.

-- At home, wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating. A
variety of nontoxic food detergents are now available for this purpose, as
well. You can find them at your local health food store.

-- When traveling, especially to third-world countries, avoid eating
uncooked vegetables, including salads, as these foods are often sprayed and
washed with local water.

-- Also avoid the use of ice cubes, including in alcoholic beverages.
Travelers forget that ice cubes are often made with local water.

-- As much as possible, drink brand name bottled water, and use the same
water when brushing your teeth. Also be sure that the water bottle is
properly sealed before you open it.

-- When bathing or showering while traveling, avoid getting water in your
mouth.

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