How to Stay Healthy in India: Deal with Delhi Belly

Traveling to India is an incredible adventure, a land of vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. But amidst the thrill, travelers often wonder: how can I stay healthy while exploring India? This is especially relevant when facing the notorious “Delhi Belly”, a common traveler’s digestive upset.

In this guide, we’ll cover practical tips to stay healthy, expert-backed advice to stay healthy while traveling, and the best ways to stay healthy physically and mentally. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a long stay, this is your complete handbook on staying healthy in India.

What is Delhi Belly and Why Does It Happen?

“Delhi Belly” is traveler slang for acute digestive trouble, typically diarrhea, cramps, or stomach upset after consuming contaminated food or water. It’s not limited to Delhi; this can happen anywhere in India (or even other countries). The main culprits are:

• Unhygienic street food
• Untreated tap water
• Poor food handling practices
• Sudden change in diet

But don’t worry, with a few smart steps, you can drastically reduce your risk and focus on enjoying your trip.

How to Stay Healthy in India: Essential Tips

1. Be Careful with Food and Water

Staying healthy in India starts with being selective about what you eat and drink.

• Drink bottled or filtered water only. Check the seal before buying bottled water. Consider carrying a portable water purifier or UV pen.
• Avoid tap water– this includes brushing teeth and washing fruits.
• Eat freshly cooked food served hot. Avoid raw salads or uncooked garnishes in street food.
• Be cautious with street food– choose stalls with high turnover where locals are eating.
• Wash hands before eating and carry a sanitizer.

These are basic but crucial health tips to stay healthy during your travels.

2. Boost Your Immunity Before You Travel

Your immune system is your best defense when wondering how to stay healthy while traveling in India.

• Start a probiotic course a few weeks before traveling.
• Consider taking Vitamin C and Zinc supplements.
• Stay up-to-date with recommended vaccinations.
• Get enough sleep and hydration before your trip.

3. Know Your Spices And Your Limits

Indian food is delicious but can be rich in spices and oils. Your digestive system may need time to adjust.

• Start with mild dishes.
• Avoid eating too much chili if you’re not used to it.
• Opt for less oily, steamed, or grilled food when possible.

One of the best ways to stay healthy is knowing when to indulge and when to hold back.

4. Be Mindful of Hygiene

Hygiene habits play a significant role in how to stay healthy in India.

• Always carry tissues and hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your face frequently.
• Use sanitizing wipes for utensils or surfaces in local eateries if needed.
• Be cautious with ice in drinks.

5. Have a Travel Health Kit Ready

Packing a small health kit is among the smartest tips to stay healthy while traveling. Include:

• ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts)
• Antidiarrheal medication (like Loperamide)
• Probiotics
• Paracetamol and antihistamines
• Electrolyte packets
• Band-aids and antiseptic cream

6. Stay Hydrated and Cool

India’s climate can be hot and humid, which increases your risk of dehydration.

• Drink plenty of safe fluids throughout the day.
• Carry a reusable water bottle with a filter.
• Wear light, breathable clothing.
• Avoid walking in the midday sun.

How to Stay Mentally Healthy While Traveling in India

How to stay mentally healthy is just as important as physical well-being, especially when adapting to a new environment.

1. Set Realistic Expectations

India is intense, in colors, crowds, sounds, and experiences. Prepare for culture shocks.

• Embrace unpredictability.
• Don’t overplan your days.
• Take breaks and rest when needed.

2. Practice Mindfulness and Patience

Traffic, queues, or delays may test your patience. Remember:

• Breathe deeply when stressed.
• Carry a book, music, or podcast for downtime.
• Practice gratitude for new experiences.

3. Connect with Fellow Travelers

Traveling solo? Joining group tours or staying in hostels helps fight loneliness.

• Share your experiences.
• Seek advice from seasoned travelers.

4. Take Care of Your Sleep

Good sleep is a cornerstone of staying healthy while traveling.

• Carry earplugs or noise-canceling headphones.
• Use eye masks in brightly lit accommodations.
• Choose quiet, well-reviewed hotels.

How Can I Stay Healthy During Long-Term Travel in India?

If you’re staying longer, for work, study, or volunteering, here are additional health tips to stay healthy:

• Register with a local doctor or clinic.
• Get health insurance with travel coverage.
• Establish a daily exercise routine even simple yoga.
• Eat a balanced diet with fruits, veggies, and proteins.
• Learn basic local health phrases for emergencies.

Best Ways to Stay Healthy on the Road

Traveling around India involves long journeys. Here’s how to stay healthy while traveling between cities:

• Carry healthy snacks like nuts, energy bars, and fruits.
• Stay hydrated on buses and trains.
• Wear a mask in crowded public places.
• Stretch or walk during stops.
• Sanitize hands frequently.

Natural Remedies and Ayurvedic Tips to Stay Healthy

India is the land of Ayurveda, the ancient wellness system. You can tap into natural ways for staying healthy in India:

• Ginger tea helps with digestion and nausea.
• Turmeric milk boosts immunity.
• Fennel seeds aid digestion after meals.
• Holy basil (tulsi) tea for respiratory health.

Always check with a healthcare professional before trying remedies if you have allergies or medical conditions.

What To Do If You Get Sick?

Even with the best precautions, you might feel unwell. Here’s advice to stay healthy even when illness strikes:

• Don’t panic mild stomach upset is common and usually passes.
• Rest and stay hydrated.
• Use Oral Rehydration Salts if you have diarrhea.
• Visit a local pharmacy or doctor for advice.
• Avoid street food or rich meals until you recover.

How Locals Stay Healthy: Simple Daily Habits

Learning from locals is a smart approach to staying healthy in India. Observe these habits:

• Drinking herbal teas.
• Using spices like turmeric and ginger in cooking.
• Eating seasonal fruits and veggies.
• Regular physical activity like yoga or morning walks.

Final Advice to Stay Healthy in India

India will surprise, challenge, and enrich you. Your best defense is being informed, prepared, and open-minded. The key points to remember when you ask yourself how to stay healthy in India:

• Stay cautious with food and water.
• Prioritize hygiene and hydration.
• Look after your mental health.
• Carry a first-aid and health kit.
• Rest if you feel sick don’t push through.

Travel is about experiences and health shouldn’t hold you back. With these health tips to stay healthy, you’re set to enjoy every bit of your Indian journey, even if Delhi Belly tries to come your way.