Bali Belly

What It Is and What to Do if You Have It

Traveling to Bali is a dream come true for many, but one thing that can put a damper on your trip is a common issue known as Bali Belly. This is a term used to describe traveler’s diarrhea, often caused by consuming contaminated food or water. While it can be uncomfortable, it’s usually not serious and can be managed with the right precautions and remedies.

In this guide, we’ll explain what Bali Belly is, its symptoms, how to prevent it, and what to do if you experience it during your trip.

What is Bali Belly?

Bali Belly refers to an upset stomach or gastrointestinal distress caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. It is most commonly a result of:

• Eating undercooked or contaminated food.
• Drinking tap water or ice made from tap water.
• Poor hygiene during food preparation.

The condition is similar to traveler’s diarrhea experienced in many tropical destinations.

Symptoms of Bali Belly

The symptoms of Bali Belly can appear within hours to a few days after consuming contaminated food or water. Common symptoms include:

• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea or vomiting
• Bloating
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Dehydration

While symptoms are typically mild, severe cases may require medical attention.

What to Do if You Have Bali Belly

1. Stay Hydrated
   • The biggest risk of Bali Belly is dehydration caused by diarrhea and vomiting. Drink plenty of fluids such as bottled water, coconut water, or oral rehydration solutions (ORS) to replace lost electrolytes.
   • Avoid sugary drinks or alcohol as they can worsen dehydration.
2. Rest Your Stomach
   • Avoid eating heavy, greasy, or spicy foods while your stomach is upset.
   • Stick to bland foods like plain rice, bananas, toast, or boiled potatoes until symptoms improve.
3. Take Over-the-Counter Medications
   • Antidiarrheal Medication: Use medications like Loperamide (Imodium) to reduce diarrhea, but only if absolutely necessary (e.g., if traveling).
   • Electrolyte Sachets: Replenish lost electrolytes with solutions like Hydralyte.
   • Probiotics: Help restore gut bacteria balance by taking probiotics.
4. Seek Medical Help if Necessary
   • If symptoms persist for more than 48 hours, worsen, or include blood in your stool, high fever, or severe dehydration, visit a doctor immediately. Clinics and hospitals in Bali are well-equipped to handle these cases.
5. Reintroduce Foods Gradually
   • Once symptoms subside, reintroduce foods slowly, starting with easily digestible options.

How to Prevent Bali Belly

Prevention is key to enjoying your Bali trip without interruptions. Follow these tips to avoid Bali Belly:

• Drink Safe Water: Only drink bottled or filtered water. Avoid tap water, including ice made from tap water.
• Watch What You Eat: Stick to freshly cooked food. Be cautious with street food, salads, and unpeeled fruits.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap or use hand sanitizer before eating.
• Choose Restaurants Wisely: Opt for reputable restaurants with good reviews, especially those catering to tourists.
• Avoid Raw or Undercooked Foods: Stay away from raw seafood, undercooked meats, and foods like sushi unless from trusted sources.

Natural Remedies for Bali Belly

If you prefer natural remedies, here are some traditional options often used in Bali:

• Ginger Tea: Known to ease nausea and stomach cramps.
• Activated Charcoal: Helps absorb toxins in the stomach and reduce diarrhea.
• Turmeric: Often consumed in Balinese jamu (a traditional herbal drink) to combat inflammation and boost immunity.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, little to no urine).
• Symptoms lasting more than 48 hours.
• High fever (above 39°C).
• Blood in your stool or persistent vomiting.

You can visit international-standard clinics in Bali, such as BIMC Hospital or Siloam Hospitals in Kuta or Denpasar, which cater to tourists.

Final Thoughts

Bali Belly is a common issue that travelers may face, but with the right precautions and remedies, it doesn’t have to ruin your trip. By staying vigilant about food and water safety, practicing good hygiene, and treating symptoms promptly, you can get back to enjoying all that Bali has to offer.