Bali Belly

💩 What Is Bali Belly?

• Also known as traveler’s diarrhea, caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites

• Common in tourists visiting Bali or other parts of Southeast Asia

• Usually results from contaminated food or water

• Not dangerous, but hella uncomfortable and can ruin your trip if you’re not ready

😵 Symptoms to Watch For

• Frequent, loose, or watery stools

• Stomach cramps or pain

• Nausea and/or vomiting

• Fever or chills

• Bloating and gas

• Fatigue and dehydration

🧼 How to Avoid Getting Bali Belly

• Avoid tap water – Drink only bottled, filtered, or boiled water

• Brush your teeth with bottled water too (don’t trust the tap)

• Skip ice in drinks unless you know it’s made from purified water

• Eat where it’s busy – high turnover = fresher food

• Be cautious with street food (choose hot, freshly cooked stuff)

• Wash your hands or use sanitizer before eating

• Peel fruits yourself, avoid raw veg if unsure of how it’s washed

• Don’t overdo it with local spicy foods right away—ease into it

• If you're extra cautious: consider taking probiotics before and during your trip

💊 What to Pack (Just in Case)

• Oral rehydration salts – critical for staying hydrated

• Imodium (Loperamide) – stops the runs if you need to travel or function

• Activated charcoal – helps absorb toxins

• Antibiotics – a backup option (consult your doc before travel)

• Electrolyte tablets or sports drinks

• Wet wipes + hand sanitizer – you’ll thank yourself later

🛌 If You Get It, Here's What To Do

• Hydrate like crazy – water, ORS, coconut water, broth

• Rest. Your body needs energy to fight it off

• Eat bland foods: plain rice, bananas, toast, broth

• Avoid dairy, spicy, greasy, or raw foods until you're solid again (literally)

• If symptoms last more than 3 days, or you have a high fever or blood in stool → see a doctor

⏳ How Long Does It Last?

• Usually clears up in 1–3 days

• Can take up to a week to fully feel normal again

🧘 Final Tips

• Don’t freak out—it happens to a ton of travelers

• Be prepared, act fast, and you’ll bounce back quick

• Use it as an excuse to chill out at your villa with a good view and some Netflix