What is Bali Belly and Why Do People Get It?
Bali Belly is a common term for traveler’s diarrhea, often experienced by tourists visiting Bali. It’s caused by consuming contaminated food or water, leading to an upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and cramps. The culprit is usually bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella, but viruses and parasites can also be responsible. Since travelers aren’t accustomed to the local bacteria, their digestive systems can react badly.
Common causes include eating street food that hasn’t been handled hygienically, drinking tap water (or even ice made from it), and consuming raw or undercooked foods. Even fresh fruit and salads can be risky if washed in unclean water. Sometimes, a sudden change in diet—especially rich or spicy foods—can also contribute to stomach troubles.
How to Avoid Bali Belly
To reduce your chances of getting Bali Belly, stick to bottled or filtered water, including for brushing your teeth. Avoid drinks with ice unless you’re sure it’s made from safe water. Choose restaurants and warungs that look clean and busy (a good sign of fresh food), and be cautious with street food—especially raw or pre-cut items. Washing hands regularly or using hand sanitizer before eating can also help prevent infection.
Taking probiotics before and during your trip may strengthen your gut, making it more resilient to unfamiliar bacteria. If you do get Bali Belly, staying hydrated with electrolyte drinks and avoiding dairy, alcohol, and greasy foods can help you recover faster. In severe cases, activated charcoal or anti-diarrheal medication can provide relief, and if symptoms persist, antibiotics or medical attention may be needed.
How to Cure Bali Belly
If you get Bali Belly (traveler’s diarrhea), here are some common medications that can help:
1. Rehydration:
- Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) – To prevent dehydration. Available at any pharmacy in Bali.
- Electrolyte drinks – Such as Pocari Sweat or coconut water.
2. For Diarrhea Control:
- Activated Charcoal (e.g., Norit) – Helps absorb toxins and can be found in Bali.
- Loperamide (Imodium) – If you need to stop diarrhea temporarily (e.g., for travel).
- Probiotics (e.g., Yakult, Florastor) – To help restore gut bacteria.
3. For Stomach Pain & Nausea:
- Buscopan – Helps with stomach cramps.
- Domperidone (Motilium) or Ondansetron – For nausea and vomiting.
4. If It’s Severe or Persistent (Possible Bacterial Infection):
- Antibiotics (Azithromycin or Ciprofloxacin) – Only if diarrhea is severe and lasts more than 2-3 days. You may need a prescription, but pharmacies in Bali often sell them over the counter.
When to See a Doctor:
- High fever (>38.5°C)
- Bloody diarrhea
- Symptoms lasting more than 3 days
- Severe dehydration (dizziness, no urination)
Final Tips
- Pack a travel first aid kit with activated charcoal, probiotics, rehydration salts, and anti-diarrhea medication.
- Know where to find a doctor in case of an emergency—hospitals like BIMC and Siloam in Bali offer excellent care.
- Don’t panic—Bali Belly is common and treatable, so just follow these steps and you’ll recover quickly!
If you need more information about safety, top restaurants and other travel tips, check our downloadable e-book BALI TRAVEL GUIDE (available in English, Croatian and Serbian)
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