Healthy Travel Tips

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The exciting experiences of spring and summer travel - visiting friends and relatives, parties and rich foods can be taxing on the body. Whether it’s a nagging cough, fatigue or an upset stomach, we’ve all been under the weather as a result of traveling.

Registered dietitian Deralee Scanlon suggests adding the following health staples to a road warrior’s travel bag:

Stress Less: Packing, making sure your luggage arrives in the same city you do, shopping for gifts and visiting relatives can all be stressful. To better manage stress, try a natural, fast-acting supplement like StressEez, which contains scientifically supported herbs (Bacopa, Valerian, Gotu Kola) and vitamins (B1 and B6) to help naturally combat stress. Deralee recommends two tablets two times daily or as needed.

Energize to Maximize Your Travels: For an active traveler who is on the go from dawn ‘til dusk, ginseng may help maintain physical stamina. Clinical studies show that ginseng may invigorate and fortify in times of fatigue, may help lower stress and increase energy levels. Deralee recommends 250 mg in standardized extract form or 1,000 mg in whole herb form daily. She strongly advises people with abnormal blood pressure or those who take anti-depressants, insulin or diabetic medication to speak with their health care professional before using ginseng.

Pump Up Your Immune System: The re-circulated air found inside of planes, trains and automobiles can be stale and unhealthful. To navigate through these environments unscathed, Deralee suggests taking new TriMune. TriMune contains scientifically-supported herbs (Andrographis and Echinacea), vitamin C and zinc that help naturally boost immunity. If you’re allergic to ragweed or related plants, Deralee strongly advises that you check with your physician before taking products that contain echinacea.

Protect Your Heart: Mealtimes while on vacation are often filled with rich foods and deserts that can add up quickly and may negatively impact cholesterol levels. To protect your heart and maintain cholesterol levels already in the normal range, try including garlic to your diet. If you don’t want to deal with garlic breath, you’re in luck. Odorless garlic tablets can be found at your local food or drug store.

Avoid Counting Sheep: Valerian root may help promote pleasant dreams for even the most restless traveler. Deralee recommends 200 mg of Valerian root in standardized extract form or 1000 mg of it in whole herb form at least one hour before bed. Don’t take Valerian if you plan to drive or operate heavy machinery.

Make A Pit Stop at the Doctor’s Office: There may be certain vaccinations or other preparations required before traveling abroad. Play it safe and make sure to check with your health care professional before departing. Some doctors and/or clinics specialize in travel medicine. You may want to take advantage of these services to ensure a safe and healthy trip.

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