How to avoid bali belly

How to Avoid Bali Belly: Practical Tips for Lombok Travelers

Bali Belly is an unpleasant experience that can ruin a vacation. It’s a common term for traveller’s diarrhoea caused by consuming contaminated food or water, leading to stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. While it’s more commonly associated with Bali, it can happen in Lombok too. Thankfully, with a few practical steps, you can reduce the risk of falling sick and enjoy your holiday without any interruptions.

What is Bali Belly?

Bali Belly occurs when your stomach reacts to unfamiliar bacteria found in food and water. This is common when traveling to tropical destinations where hygiene standards may differ from what you’re used to at home.

How to Avoid Bali Belly: Simple and Practical Steps

To minimize your chances of getting Bali Belly, follow these easy yet effective tips:

1. Be Cautious with Water

• Drink Only Bottled Water: Always opt for sealed bottled water. Avoid drinking tap water, even when brushing your teeth.

• Ice Awareness: Check if the ice is made from filtered water. If unsure, avoid it altogether.

• Stay Hydrated Safely: Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it at trusted sources like your hotel’s filtered water station.

2. Choose Food Wisely

• Eat at Clean and Busy Restaurants: High customer turnover often means fresher food.

• Avoid Raw Foods: Steer clear of raw vegetables and salads as they might be washed in contaminated water. Opt for cooked dishes instead.

• Fruit Caution: Only eat fruits you can peel yourself, like bananas and oranges.

3. Practice Good Hygiene

• Wash Your Hands Regularly: Use soap and water or carry hand sanitizer when soap isn't available.

• Avoid Touching Your Face: Especially after touching surfaces in public places.

4. Be Careful with Street Food

Street food is tempting but can be risky if not prepared hygienically. If you want to try it:

• Watch How It’s Prepared: Choose stalls where food is cooked fresh in front of you.

• Check for Cleanliness: Observe the vendor's hygiene practices before purchasing.

Preparing Before You Travel

A few precautions before your trip can strengthen your immunity and minimize your chances of getting Bali Belly:

• Probiotics: Start taking probiotics a week before your trip to boost gut health. Continue during your stay.

• Vaccinations: Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations, such as typhoid and hepatitis A.

• Pack a Medical Kit: Include anti-diarrheal medicine, oral rehydration salts, and pain relievers.

What to Do If You Get Bali Belly

Even with precautions, Bali Belly can still happen. Here’s how to recover quickly:

1. Rest and Hydrate

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of bottled water and oral rehydration solutions to replace lost fluids. Coconuts with lime is also a local trick to assist with feeling better.

• Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: These can dehydrate you further.

2. Eat Simple, Easy-to-Digest Foods

• BRAT Diet: Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, and Toast are gentle on the stomach.

• Avoid Dairy and Spicy Foods: They can irritate the stomach and worsen symptoms.

3. Medication

• Anti-Diarrheal Medicine: Use cautiously, as it may prolong the illness by keeping bacteria in the gut.

• Consult a Doctor: If symptoms persist for more than 48 hours or are severe, seek medical attention.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical help if you experience:

• Severe dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, or reduced urine output)

• High fever (above 38°C / 100.4°F)

• Blood in stool or persistent vomiting

Final Thoughts

Bali Belly is common but preventable. By taking a few precautions before and during your trip, you can significantly reduce your risk. And if you do fall ill, knowing how to manage the symptoms will help you recover faster.

Enjoy your time in Lombok by staying informed and prepared—safe travels!