What Is Bali Belly? Understanding Causes and Prevention

If you’re planning a trip to Bali, you’ve probably heard the term “Bali Belly.”

It’s a common travel woe, but don’t let it stop you from enjoying everything Bali has to offer. With the right precautions, you can dodge this stomach bug and make the most of your holiday.

Here’s a simple guide on what Bali Belly is, what causes it, and how to prevent it.

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What Is Bali Belly?

Bali Belly is another way of saying traveller's diarrhoea. It’s typically caused by consuming contaminated food or water and can lead to nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhoea, and sometimes vomiting.

As a visitor, your body might not be used to the local bacteria, making you more susceptible to it. Symptoms can appear quickly, leaving you feeling miserable for a day or two.

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Causes of Bali Belly

There are a few key causes of Bali Belly, and understanding them can help you avoid the unpleasant experience.

Here are the most common reasons people get Bali Belly:

• Contaminated Food and Water: Unwashed fruits, untreated water, or food cooked in unhygienic conditions can carry harmful bacteria. Street food is a common risk.
• Poor Hygiene: Touching food with unwashed hands or eating at places where food isn't handled properly increases the chance of exposure to bacteria like E. coli.
• New Bacteria Exposure: Bali’s local bacteria may be unfamiliar to visitors, making travellers more vulnerable to illness.
• Tropical Climate: Warm and humid conditions in Bali make it easy for bacteria to grow on food, especially if it’s left out in the sun or unrefrigerated.

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How to Avoid Bali Belly

Preventing Bali Belly isn’t hard if you follow some simple rules. Here’s what you can do:

• Drink Bottled Water – Always stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Avoid ice unless you know it’s made from filtered water.
• Wash Hands Frequently – Keep your hands clean, especially before meals. Hand sanitizer can be handy when soap and water aren’t available.
• Avoid Street Food – It may be tempting, but stick to reputable restaurants where food handling is more reliable.
• Peel Fruits and Vegetables – Only eat fruits you can peel yourself, like bananas or oranges, to avoid bacteria from unfiltered water.
• Take Probiotics – Consider taking probiotics before and during your trip to strengthen your gut and improve your resistance to unfamiliar bacteria.
• Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of safe, clean water to stay hydrated and keep your body functioning properly.
• Pack Rehydration Salts – It’s a good idea to carry oral rehydration salts in case of mild symptoms, to help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes.

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What to Do If You Get Bali Belly

Even if you’re cautious, there’s always a chance you might catch Bali Belly.

If that happens, don’t panic. Here’s what you can do:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink lots of bottled water or rehydration solutions. Coconut water is a great natural option to replenish lost fluids.
• Take Over-the-Counter Meds: Imodium and activated charcoal tablets can help with the symptoms, but avoid self-medicating for too long.
• Eat Light: Stick to bland foods like plain rice, toast, and bananas until you feel better​.
• See a Doctor: If symptoms last more than a couple of days or get severe, seek medical help. Bali has plenty of clinics where you can get checked out​.

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Recovery Tips

To get back to enjoying Bali quickly, follow these simple recovery tips:

• Hydrate: Keep drinking fluids, even after you start feeling better.
• Take it Easy: Don’t rush back to heavy meals. Start slow with simple foods until your stomach is back to normal.
• Rest Up: Give yourself time to recover properly before heading back to full travel mode.

Conclusion

Bali Belly doesn’t have to ruin your trip. By following these tips, you can stay healthy and enjoy Bali to the fullest. If you do catch it, don’t worry—just take it easy, stay hydrated, and you’ll be back on your feet in no time.

So, pack your sunscreen, bring your bottled water, and get ready for an unforgettable Bali adventure!