Vir Das On Bowel Movement Issues While Travelling Abroad: 'Intestines On Protest'

Crossing time zones can disrupt the body's natural rhythms, including bowel habits, making it difficult for the digestive system to function properly, leading to constipation.

Comedian and actor Vir Das has shared many relatable posts on social media, but his latest one takes the cake for being super funny. The 'Go Goa Gone' actor, who had been on a tour for standup comedy, returned from London recently, and he is mighty relieved (pun intended) for having been able to get his digestive activities in order. Das had been suffering from a particularly-difficult episode of constipation. He blames it on the numerous countries and time zones he visited in the past few weeks, before finally returning home to India. His post on Instagram read, "Travelling for a month solid. [Twelve] different time zones. Intestines on protest. Will not cooperate. Intestine is like, 'You deserve this shut-down, eat what you like, eat all the fibre you need, you will not break our resolve'." The 45-year-old hilariously continued in the Instagram post: "...travels home. Been home seven hours. Not eaten a thing. Pooped twice. Don't even pretend like this isn't more valuable than any of your travels."

The actor concluded by writing that proper bowel movements are more important than travelling and wanderlust.

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This is a common problem that many people experience from time-to-time, especially when they have travelled abroad, leaving the comforts of their home country. A change of climate, weather, water intake and food consumption can cause some digestive distress, leading to irregularity of bowel movements. Ultimately, the familiarity of home can soothe the system and make it easier for a person to relieve themselves. Vir Das' post is quite honest and candid, and he was praised by his fans and followers in the comment section for highlighting the issue in such a quirky manner.

Why Do People Experience Constipation While Travelling?

There are several reasons why people may experience constipation while traveling abroad:

1. Changes in diet: As mentioned earlier, travellers often consume unfamiliar foods, which can be high in fat, sugar, and salt -- for lack of healthier options -- leading to constipation.
2. Dehydration: Inadequate fluid intake, combined with changes in climate, can cause dehydration, leading to constipation.
3. Disrupted routine: Travel can disrupt regular bowel habits, making it difficult for the body to adjust to new environments and schedules.
4. Stress: Travelling can be stressful, and stress can aggravate constipation.
5. Water quality: Since tap water quality can vary significantly abroad, consuming water with different mineral content or bacteria can affect bowel habits and cause constipation.
6. Lack of physical activity: Reduced physical activity during travels can contribute to constipation.
7. Time zone changes: Crossing time zones can disrupt the body's natural rhythms, including bowel habits, and make it challenging for a person to relieve themselves.
8. Medications: Certain medications, such as antibiotics or painkillers, can also cause constipation.

How To Ensure Proper Movement Of Bowel?

To minimise the risk of constipation while travelling abroad, one must consider doing the following:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Eat fibre-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Try to maintain a regular bowel routine.
• Manage stress.
• Consume probiotics or fibre supplements.
• Exercise regularly.