When the intestines function normally, food and fluids pass from the stomach into the small intestine and then into the colon for digestion and absorption. Sometimes the cells that line the small intestine become irritated and cannot properly absorb the water and nutrients from the food. When this happens, intestinal activities and secretion will increase, thus causing diarrhea.

There are 2 types of diarrhea: non-infectious diarrhea, which is caused by stress, excitement, or change in diet; and infectious diarrhea, or Travelers' Diarrhea, which is caused by bacteria or viruses found in polluted water and food.

Travelers' Diarrhea

Diarrhea is the most common travelers' sickness. If you experience diarrhea, please observe the followings:

• Prevent dehydration. Replace lost fluids and electrolytes by drinking bottled water, light soup or fruit juice.
• Limit food intake to hot beverages, followed by plain food until you feel back to normal.
• Take NT-Diorea (Note: We recommend you pack an effective antidiarrheal product such as NT-Diorea, because one may not be available at your destination.)
• Please see your doctor if your diarrhea lasts more than 2 days, if you have a fever over 101°F, or if blood or mucus is present in the stool.

Food and Drink

Sampling local cuisines is a great travel pleasure, provided you take a few simple precautions. To avoid illness, we recommend that you:

DO

• Drink only bottled water or hot beverages
• Only eat fruits you have peeled yourself
• Be sure that foods are well-cooked and arrive hot

DON'T

• Drink tap water or use ice cubes
• Eat fruits unpeeled
• Eat uncooked vegetables or salads
• Eat undercooked or raw meats, fish or seafood.
• Drink non-sterilized milk or dairy products
• Eat foods sold by hawkers