5 Of The Best Supplements For Travel According To Health Experts

As exciting as traveling is, it can also take a toll on our health and well-being. Long flights, jet lag, unfamiliar foods and changes in climate can leave us feeling less than fantastic. For a more enjoyable journey, taking the right health supplements could make a difference. Here are some of the best travel supplements to consider:

1. Multivitamins

A well-rounded multivitamin can provide essential nutrients that may be lacking in your diet while traveling. Look for a comprehensive formula that includes vitamins A, C, D, E, B-complex, and minerals like zinc and magnesium to support overall health and immunity. The Harvard School of Public Health says an expensive brand name is not necessary as long as the recommended daily allowance amount is included.

2. Curcumin

Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Some potential benefits of traditional curcumin supplements include reducing inflammation, supporting joint health, and aiding digestion. Additionally, it’s antibacterial and can be used to tackle food poisoning. These benefits can be great for travelers who experience inflammation from long flights, joint discomfort due to walking or carrying luggage, or digestive issues from trying new foods.

And, potentially even better is nano-curcumin, a formulation of curcumin that aims to improve its bioavailability, allowing it to be more easily absorbed by the body. Sold by the brand NanoCumin after years of research and development, this significantly enhanced version of curcumin is measured in nano-meters and thus comes with a much smaller particle size, leading to a more than 40 times higher bioavailability than conventional curcumin. This might not only make it much more effective but also enable users to consume lower doses which can limit side effects.

3. Probiotics

To avoid an upset stomach, thanks to being exposed to unfamiliar bacteria and germs, probiotics help support gut health and boost immunity. Taking a probiotic supplement can help maintain a healthy balance of gut flora and reduce the risk of digestive discomfort during your travels. According to dietitians at Healthline, daily probiotic capsules from Culturelle and Florastor are both good choices.

4. Melatonin

The dreaded, unavoidable jetlag, with its disruption of your sleep patterns after a long-haul flight, can be eased by Melatonin supplements. These can assist in regulating your sleep-wake cycle, making it easier to adjust to new time zones and promoting better sleep quality. Healthline recommends Pure Encapsulations melatonin as the best overall brand because it’s third-party tested and suitable for most healthy adults, including anyone who has food allergies or tends to be sensitive to supplements and vitamins.

5. Ginger

Another proven remedy for motion sickness or upset stomach during travel is ginger. In a portable supplement format, ginger can provide natural relief. Emma Slattery, a clinical dietitian at Johns Hopkins Medicine says that ginger has anti-nausea properties by effecting gastrointestinal motility ― the rate at which food exits the stomach and continues along the digestive process. Eating ginger encourages efficient digestion, so food doesn’t linger as long in the gut.” She also says that “ginger contains over 400 natural compounds, and some of these are anti-inflammatory.”

Incorporating the best travel supplements into your routine can provide support for your body and mind, helping you stay energized and healthy throughout your journey. Of course, before adding any supplements to your travel regimen, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure they align with your specific health needs and conditions.