Is Constipation or Stage Fright Your Travel Problem?

Traveling can interrupt your normal routine for diet and exercise and can even affect your bathroom schedule (in other words, you may suffer from constipation). If you experience constipation from traveling there are couple of simple remedies. Be proactive and take these steps to avoid problems:

• Stay well hydrated (that means 2-L or 64oz. per day)
• Eat snacks that keep you regular (dried prunes work great!)
• Stay away from lots of carbohydrates that don't provide fiber (try WASA brand crackers as an alternative - loaded w/ fiber)
• Eat as much fresh fruits and veggies as possible – we always order extra salad or fruit sides at each meal
• Pack fiber pills that may be used in a pinch (remember, effects are 24 hrs. later so consider taking 1 the night before)
• For your stage fright look for secluded and private bathrooms:
  • Starbuck’s coffee shops usually have individual bathrooms
  • Most hotels have a set of bathrooms one floor above the lobby that are less frequented – ask a staff member where the bathrooms are
  • If you are attending a work conference, use the restroom during a presentation rather than at the breaks
  • If you are staying at a relative's house, turn on the shower and fan, if that doesn’t work, offer to pick up lattes at the neighborhood Starbucks (see above)

For more information visit the MayoClinic.com.