Do you get sick while travelling? Physician Dr Kunal Sood shares 5 supplements that can help
Do You Get Sick While Travelling? 5 Supplements to Help
Why Travelers Fall Ill
Bharatmorningnews.com – Do you get sick while travelling? Many people dream of exploring new destinations, but adjusting to unfamiliar environments can trigger unexpected health issues. Journey-related illnesses frequently disrupt well-organized travel plans, leaving travelers frustrated and uncomfortable. To help address this widespread problem, physician Dr. Kunal Sood shared valuable insights on Instagram on August 6, recommending several supplements that may strengthen your immune system during trips.
Dr. Sood made it clear that these supplements are not guaranteed protection against illness, but rather helpful additions to support your overall health while you explore. Understanding which supplements work best can make your next journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Five Supplements for Travel Wellness
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient essential for calcium absorption, which strengthens bones and supports immune function. Dr. Sood explained that while vitamin D helps maintain normal immune activity, research has not consistently shown that supplementation alone prevents respiratory infections. Many travelers do not get enough sunlight in new locations, making supplementation potentially beneficial.
“Correcting deficiency is worthwhile, but it is not a last-minute travel infection preventive,” the physician explained.
Zinc
Zinc plays a vital role in immune cell function and has been studied extensively for cold prevention. According to Dr. Sood, zinc supplementation has not definitively proven effective at stopping colds in everyday use, but timing matters significantly.
“Oral zinc lozenges started within about 24 hours of symptom onset may modestly shorten a cold, while intranasal zinc products should be avoided because of smell-loss risk,” he advised.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C remains one of the most popular supplements for immune support. Dr. Sood noted that vitamin C typically does not prevent colds from occurring, but might reduce their duration somewhat. Taking vitamin C only after symptoms appear usually offers little benefit, and consuming excessive amounts can trigger digestive discomfort.
“Regular vitamin C does not usually prevent colds, but it may shorten their duration slightly. Starting vitamin C only after symptoms begin has generally not been helpful, and high doses can cause gastrointestinal side effects.”
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms—bacteria or yeasts—that provide various health advantages when consumed regularly. Dr. Sood mentioned that certain probiotic varieties might slightly decrease respiratory infections, though results depend heavily on the specific strain used. Different formulations target different health concerns.
“Current CDC guidance considers the evidence insufficient to recommend probiotics for preventing travellers’ diarrhoea,” he highlighted.
Elderberry
Elderberry has gained popularity as a natural remedy, but research has not consistently shown it to stop colds, including studies involving air travelers. It might offer modest improvements in illness length or symptom intensity once a cold has already developed, though supporting evidence remains limited.
“Elderberry has not reliably prevented colds, even in an air-travel study. It may modestly shorten illness or reduce symptom severity once a cold develops, but evidence remains limited.”
Important Considerations for Travelers
Before incorporating any supplements into your routine, Dr. Sood shared a valuable insight regarding their combined use. Taking multiple supplements together does not necessarily provide additional benefits beyond what each offers individually.
“These supplements have not been shown to work better when combined, and they should not replace safe food and water practices, insect precautions, or hand hygiene,” he stated.
About Dr. Kunal Sood
Dr. Kunal Sood holds MD credentials and is double board-certified in both Anesthesiology and Interventional Pain Medicine. He completed his residency and fellowship in anesthesiology at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, followed by a one-year fellowship in interventional pain medicine. He subsequently served as Medical Director of an office in Germantown, Maryland.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which supplement is best for preventing travel sickness?
No single supplement guarantees prevention, but vitamin D and zinc are among the most studied options. Vitamin D helps maintain immune function, while zinc lozenges may shorten cold duration if started within 24 hours of symptoms.
Should I start supplements before or after traveling?
Starting supplements before your trip allows your body to build up levels gradually. However, Dr. Sood noted that last-minute supplementation may still provide some benefit, particularly for correcting deficiencies.
Can I take all five supplements together?
While combining supplements is generally safe, Dr. Sood clarified that they have not been shown to work better when combined. Focus on addressing specific deficiencies rather than taking everything at once.
Do supplements replace other travel health measures?
No. Supplements should complement, not replace, safe food and water practices, insect precautions, and proper hand hygiene. These foundational measures remain essential for preventing illness.
Reader Note
This content serves informational purposes and does not substitute professional medical guidance. Consult your physician regarding any health concerns. This report draws from user-generated social media content. HT.com has not independently verified the claims presented and does not endorse them.