High Altitude Travel: Why Your Stomach Rebels & How to Prepare

• High altitudes cause stomach upset due to hypoxia (lack of oxygen), affecting the vagus nerve and slowing digestion.
• Hypoxia impairs vagus nerve function, leading to slow intestinal movement, improper enzyme release, gas, and bloating.
• Cold weather at high altitudes activates the 'fight or flight' response, further slowing down digestion to conserve energy.
• Travel also disrupts the gut microbiome, an effect amplified at high altitudes, potentially causing severe digestive issues.
• Prepare by eating light, staying hydrated, and consuming digestion-friendly foods before high-altitude trips.

Why It Matters: High altitude travel disrupts digestion due to hypoxia and cold; prepare with light food and hydration.