How to Avoid Bali Belly: Tips for Staying Healthy at Your Villa in Bali

November 11, 2024

Bali is famous for its stunning beaches, luxurious villa in Bali stays, rich culture, and vibrant food scene. However, many travellers experience “Bali Belly,” a common term for travelers’ diarrhea. With a few easy precautions, you can protect yourself and enjoy a smooth trip.

1. Be Mindful of Your Water Intake

Tap water in Bali is generally not safe for drinking, so it’s best to stick to bottled or filtered water. Here are some tips to keep your water intake safe:

Drink Bottled Water Only: Stick to bottled water from reputable brands and ensure the seal is intact when you buy it.
Avoid Ice in Drinks: Ice is often made with tap water, which could cause stomach issues. Ask for no ice in your drinks if you’re uncertain of the source.
Be Cautious with Food-Washing: Fresh fruits and vegetables washed in tap water may carry bacteria, so be selective about where you eat raw produce.

2. Choose Food Wisely

Food is one of the best parts of visiting Bali, but street food or improperly handled meals can pose risks. Here’s how to enjoy local cuisine safely:

Eat at Trusted Locations: Choose restaurants and food vendors with good reputations. Consider opting for places with high customer turnover, as this often means fresh ingredients. If you’re staying in Seminyak villas Bali offers some high-quality options for dining out, ensuring food safety and taste.
Avoid Raw Foods: Dishes with uncooked ingredients carry a higher risk. Stick to fully cooked meals if you’re uncertain.
Try Bali Home Cooking: Bali home cooking experiences are a great way to safely enjoy local flavors. Opt for well-reviewed classes that prioritize food safety.

3. Wash Your Hands Regularly

Keeping your hands clean is essential, especially when you’re out exploring and trying local foods. Stomach issues are often spread through contaminated surfaces, so practice good hygiene to stay safe:

Use Hand Sanitizer: Keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer with you, especially for situations where soap and water aren’t available.
Wash Hands Before Meals: Whenever possible, wash your hands with soap and water before eating to remove any germs picked up throughout the day.

4. Be Cautious with Beverages

It can be tempting to try local drinks, especially those from markets and street vendors, but be cautious with drinks from unknown sources:

Choose Safe Juices and Smoothies: Fresh juices may be diluted with tap water. Stick to bottled options or fruits that can be peeled.
Avoid Unknown Local Spirits: Local spirits like arak may not be made or stored safely. Stick to drinks from reputable bars.

5. Take Probiotics Before and During Your Trip

A strong gut can help ward off “Bali Belly” by improving your digestive health. Starting a probiotic regimen a week before your trip can be beneficial:

Use Probiotic Supplements: Look for a high-quality probiotic supplement with diverse strains to strengthen your gut.
Eat Probiotic Foods: Yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods can help balance gut bacteria and may reduce your risk of stomach troubles.

6. Be Prepared with Medications

Despite your best efforts, stomach issues can still occur. Having the right medications on hand can help you manage symptoms quickly:

Antidiarrheal Medicine: Medications like loperamide (Imodium) can help control symptoms if you experience diarrhea.
Rehydration Salts: Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so rehydration salts are useful to replace lost electrolytes.
Activated Charcoal: Some travellers swear by activated charcoal tablets to help absorb toxins and relieve mild stomach issues.
Seek Medical Help If Necessary: If symptoms persist for more than a couple of days or are severe, seek medical advice to ensure there’s no underlying infection.

7. Eat and Drink in Moderation

It’s easy to overindulge in Bali’s exciting flavours, but moderation can keep your stomach comfortable:

Try Small Portions First: Sample a little to see how your body reacts.
Stay Hydrated: Water aids digestion, especially in Bali’s tropical heat.

8. Limit Alcohol Intake

Alcohol can irritate your stomach, increasing vulnerability to digestive issues:

Choose Trusted Brands: Local brews may vary in quality, so stick to well-known labels.
Alternate with Water: Staying hydrated helps balance alcohol’s dehydrating effects.

Enjoy Your Bali Adventure with Confidence

Ready for a Bali adventure without the worry of Bali Belly? At Villa Coco, a premier villa in Bali, we prioritize both your comfort and health with a safe, relaxing stay in the heart of Seminyak. From Bali home cooking experiences to exploring the local dining scene, our Seminyak villas in Bali are ideally located for you to savour every moment without concern. Book your stay with us at Villa Coco and enjoy the best of Bali, worry-free!