Nutritionist shares tips on protecting children's digestion while travelling
Nutritionist Olga Ļubina explains how parents can maintain healthy eating habits for children during summer travel and reduce the risk of digestive upset. She advises sticking to familiar foods, being cautious with drinking water, and packing a small first-aid kit.
Summer is peak travel season for families exploring new places, but changes in routine, diet and environment can affect children's appetite and digestion. Certified nutritionist and "Rimi Bērniem" expert Olga Ļubina explains how to care for a child's nutrition while travelling.
Fussy eating is normal while travelling
According to Ļubina, small children often become pickier eaters during trips, preferring familiar foods over local dishes. This is a natural reaction to an unfamiliar environment and disrupted daily routine, which can make children cautious about new food. At the start of a trip, it's best to offer familiar meals such as porridge, pasta or meat dishes, and introduce new flavours gradually once the child has settled in.
For children with food allergies or those especially wary of new foods, choosing accommodation with a kitchen gives parents more control over ingredients. It also helps to pack favourite snacks such as porridge, fruit purees, cheese sticks or crackers for moments when a child refuses local food.
Water quality and hydration
Clean drinking water is essential to avoid digestive problems and overheating, especially in warm countries. Bottled or boiled water is recommended, and caution should be taken with ice in drinks, since its water source is often unknown. A new environment, water and microflora can trigger mild digestive issues such as diarrhoea.
What to do if digestive problems occur
Mild digestive upsets usually resolve on their own, but parents should monitor their child's condition and fluid intake closely. If a child becomes very weak, apathetic, unable to drink fluids, or urinates noticeably less than usual, immediate medical attention is needed. Ļubina recommends packing a small first-aid kit with remedies for fever and diarrhoea, as well as rehydration solutions. She also notes that a calm parental attitude helps children feel safer and more open to new experiences during the trip.
