Vacations are a chance to relax and recharge—but travel also brings challenges for your health.
From jet lag to digestive upsets, it’s easy for wellness to take a back seat while you’re on the go.
The key is planning ahead and making small choices that protect your body no matter where you are.
1. Beat Jet Lag Before It Starts
- Adjust your sleep schedule a few days before travel if crossing time zones.
- Stay hydrated on flights—dehydration worsens jet lag.
- Get sunlight in your new destination as soon as possible to reset your body clock.
2. Protect Your Gut on the Road
- Bring healthy snacks like nuts, protein bars, or fruit to avoid airport fast food.
- Drink bottled or filtered water if the local supply is questionable.
- Add probiotics (yogurt, kefir, or supplements) to keep digestion steady.
3. Move During Long Trips
- Stretch and walk every 1–2 hours during flights or long drives.
- Try seated stretches (ankle rolls, shoulder shrugs) to prevent stiffness and clots.
4. Prioritize Rest
Travel excitement often cuts into sleep. Use earplugs, an eye mask, or calming music to make rest easier on the road.
5. Prepare a Travel Wellness Kit
Include hand sanitizer, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and basic medications for headaches, digestion, or allergies.
Healthy travel isn’t about perfection—it’s about preparation. With mindful choices, you can explore the world while keeping your body energized and protected.
Planning a trip soon? Schedule a travel health consultation with Doctor Kre for personalized advice, vaccines, and tips to keep you safe wherever you go.
Dr. Kre Johnson is a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician and the sole owner of Brownstone Healthcare and Aesthetics. She is the Medical Director of the City of Birmingham’s Employee Health Clinic-Brownstone BWell Birmingham. She is the Event Producer of Wifeology and the founder of Three Twenty Girls, Inc. She loves God, traveling, and all things Southern!!
Brownstone BWell: Brownstone Healthcare has partnered with the City of Birmingham to offer primary care services to the employees of the City of Birmingham for $0 copayment. This partnership is for preventative services & screenings and sick visits. We partner with your current primary care physician and our goal is to keep you out of the ER and urgent care. We do not share your information with the City of Birmingham. We uphold HIPPA and professional standards. You can visit us at our downtown location 1700 5th Ave N Birmingham, AL 35203 or Trussville: 4643 Camp Coleman Road #117 Trussville, AL 35173 205-202-5650 call for your appointment today.
