If you’ve heard of Bali Belly, you probably know it’s one of the most common travel problems for tourists visiting Bali — especially in popular areas like Canggu, Seminyak, and Uluwatu.
It can turn your relaxing holiday into a few uncomfortable days of stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue. But what actually causes it, and how can you avoid it?
Let’s break it down.
What Is Bali Belly?
Bali Belly — also known as traveler’s diarrhea — happens when your digestive system reacts to unfamiliar bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
This can occur when you eat or drink something that your stomach isn’t used to, or when you come into contact with contaminated food or water.
Even the cleanest-looking restaurants can have small lapses in food handling or hygiene, especially in tropical conditions where bacteria grow faster.
Why Tourists Often Get Bali Belly
Here are the most common reasons visitors in Canggu and other parts of Bali get Bali Belly:
- Contaminated Water or Ice
Tap water in Bali is not safe to drink. Even ice from street vendors can cause trouble if it’s made from unfiltered water. - Unfamiliar Food
Balinese dishes are flavorful but can be spicy, oily, or rich — a shock to your digestive system if you’re not used to it. - Hot and Humid Climate
Warm weather increases bacteria growth and dehydration risk. - Different Hygiene Standards
Even small differences in how food is washed or handled can affect your gut. - Weakened Immune System from Travel Fatigue
Long flights, lack of sleep, and jet lag make your body more vulnerable to infection.
How to Prevent Bali Belly in Canggu
While there’s no 100% guarantee, you can significantly reduce your risk by following these simple tips:
- 💧 Drink bottled or filtered water only – and make sure the seal is intact.
- 🍽️ Eat freshly cooked food – avoid pre-cut fruits or uncooked salads from street stalls.
- 🧊 Be cautious with ice – only consume it from reputable cafes or restaurants.
- ✋ Wash your hands often – or use a hand sanitizer before eating.
- 🧘♀️ Start slow – let your stomach adjust to local food gradually.
- 💊 Take probiotics before and during your trip to strengthen your gut flora.
What to Do If You Get Bali Belly
If you start feeling unwell, don’t panic — most cases are mild and resolve within a few days.
Here’s what you can do:
- Rest and Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water or electrolyte solutions like ORS or coconut water. - Eat Light
Stick to bananas, rice, toast, and soup until you recover. - Avoid Dairy and Alcohol
These can worsen diarrhea and delay recovery. - Get Medical Help if Symptoms Persist
If you experience severe diarrhea, fever, or dehydration, you should contact a doctor in Canggu for proper treatment.
Fast Recovery Option: IV Therapy at Home
If you’re too weak to leave your villa, Ivy Medical Bali offers home visit IV therapy in Canggu.
Our licensed doctors and nurses can come to your accommodation to provide:
- IV hydration and electrolyte replacement
- Anti-nausea and anti-cramp medications
- Vitamin boosters to speed up recovery
You’ll start feeling better within a few hours and can get back to enjoying your vacation.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Care
Contact a doctor right away if you notice:
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 48 hours
- Blood in stool
- High fever
- Signs of dehydration (dry lips, dizziness, fatigue)
Stay Healthy and Enjoy Your Time in Canggu
Don’t let Bali Belly ruin your trip. With good hygiene, proper hydration, and quick medical support when needed, you can enjoy Bali’s beaches, cafés, and sunsets worry-free.
💧 Ivy Medical Bali – Doctor Home Visit & IV Drip in Canggu
📍 Available in Canggu, Seminyak, Kuta, Uluwatu
🌐 www.ivymedicalbali.com
