How To Avoid And Treat Bali Belly During Your Trip To Bali

Luna Greco

5 min read

Post on May 28, 2025

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Preventing Bali Belly: Proactive Steps for a Healthy Holiday

Avoiding Bali belly starts long before you even set foot on the island. Proactive measures significantly reduce your risk of experiencing this common travel ailment.

Food Safety Practices in Bali

Food safety is paramount when traveling to Bali. Here's how to minimize your risk:

• Choose reputable restaurants: Opt for well-established eateries, particularly those with high customer turnover. A busy restaurant suggests fresh ingredients and quick preparation.
• Avoid street food (with caution): While tempting, street food poses a higher risk of contamination. If you indulge, choose vendors who appear clean and hygienic, and avoid raw or undercooked dishes. Look for popular stalls with high turnover.
• Drink bottled water only: Tap water in Bali is not safe for consumption. Always drink bottled water, and ensure the seal is intact.
• Beware of ice: Ice cubes can be made with contaminated water. Avoid ice unless you're certain it's made with purified water.
• Peel your own produce: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, or better yet, peel them yourself before eating to remove any potential contaminants.
• Handwashing is crucial: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating. Carry hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable.

Hydration and Hygiene

Staying hydrated and maintaining good hygiene are crucial for preventing Bali belly:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of bottled water throughout the day to prevent dehydration, a common consequence of diarrhea.
• Use hand sanitizer: Carry a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol and use it frequently, especially after touching surfaces or before eating.
• Pack oral rehydration salts (ORS): ORS are crucial for replacing lost fluids and electrolytes. Pack them as a preventative measure and definitely if you experience diarrhea.

Pre-Trip Preparations

Taking steps before your trip can significantly boost your immunity:

• Consult your doctor: Schedule a visit with your doctor to discuss recommended vaccinations and any necessary medications for Bali. They can advise on appropriate prophylactic antibiotics, though this is not always necessary.
• Pack anti-diarrheal medication: Consider packing loperamide (Imodium) or another anti-diarrheal medication, but only use it as directed by a doctor. It manages symptoms but doesn't treat the underlying cause.
• Take probiotics: Probiotics can help maintain a healthy gut balance. Start taking them a week or two before your trip and continue throughout your stay.

Recognizing and Treating Bali Belly: Symptoms and Solutions

Knowing the symptoms and appropriate treatment is vital in managing Bali belly.

Symptoms of Traveler's Diarrhea

Common symptoms include:

• Diarrhea (frequent, loose stools)
• Stomach cramps and pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, decreased urination)

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe dehydration
• Bloody diarrhea
• High fever (above 102°F or 39°C)
• Symptoms lasting more than a few days

Home Remedies for Mild Bali Belly

For mild cases, these home remedies can help:

• BRAT diet: Stick to the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) to help bind your stools and soothe your digestive system.
• Oral rehydration salts (ORS): Replenish lost fluids and electrolytes with ORS. Follow package instructions carefully.
• Rest: Get plenty of rest to allow your body to recover. Avoid strenuous activity.
• Over-the-counter medications: Loperamide (Imodium) can help slow down diarrhea, but consult a doctor first, especially if symptoms persist.

Seeking Medical Assistance

While home remedies can help manage mild cases, severe Bali belly requires professional medical attention:

• When to seek help: Seek medical assistance if symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by fever, blood in stool, or severe dehydration.
• Finding medical care in Bali: Bali has numerous clinics and hospitals offering medical care for travelers.
• Proper diagnosis and treatment: A doctor can diagnose the cause of your Bali belly and prescribe appropriate medication.

Choosing Accommodation and Tours Wisely

Your choice of accommodation and tours can also influence your risk of Bali belly.

Accommodation Selection

Choose accommodations with a strong emphasis on hygiene:

• Reputable hotels and guesthouses: Opt for established hotels and guesthouses with good hygiene standards and positive reviews regarding cleanliness.
• Check reviews: Read online reviews to assess the cleanliness of the accommodation and any past reports of food-related illnesses.

Tour Operators and Food Choices

Be mindful when choosing tour operators and their food options:

• Reputable tour operators: Book tours with reputable operators who prioritize food safety and hygiene.
• Ask about food: Inquire about the food options provided on tours and make informed choices, selecting well-established restaurants wherever possible.

Conclusion

Bali belly doesn't have to ruin your Balinese adventure. By taking proactive steps to prevent it and knowing how to treat it effectively, you can enjoy a healthy and happy holiday. Remember to prioritize food and water safety, maintain good hygiene, and stay hydrated. If symptoms worsen, seek medical assistance immediately. Plan ahead, be prepared, and enjoy your trip to Bali—without the Bali belly! Learn more about avoiding and treating Bali belly and start planning your worry-free trip today!