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Why Laxatives Are a Bad Idea for Travel Constipation

Why Laxatives Are a Bad Idea for Travel Constipation

Travel constipation can be frustrating — but the “quick fix” can sometimes be worse than the problem. I learned this the hard way, 60 feet under the ocean in Big Island, Hawaii.

My Wake-Up Call in the Middle of the Pacific

Last year, I was on a dream trip to Big Island. Knowing I would have problems going to the bathroom, I have done my Amazon research and packed a “natural gentle relief” product with me. It looked wholesome — herbs and all natural on the label — senna, slippery elm, and other typical natural laxatives you find in generic constipation relief.

I took 2 pills before bed as recommended and hoping to get a "natural relief" the next morning before my scuba diving trip. 

The next day, I woke up to the worst stomach cramps. But I was able to get some "relief", it was just not natural. It was pretty much diarrhea. Still, I had already booked and paid for the dive, so I went ahead.

All geared up and ready to go

We dove down into Hawaii’s underwater world — it was so tranquil, so beautiful. I saw all kinds of fishes, octopus, sea turtles. I was having the best time of my life, until the worse cramp started again and I knew something bad was about to happen. 

I made an emergency ascent, rushed back to the boat, stripped off my wetsuit (really painful), and… well, let’s just say it wasn’t exactly the vacation moment I’d imagined.

That day, I realized: when traveling, you can’t afford bathroom emergencies. You never know when or where you’ll be when nature calls.

can only admire the water from above

 

The Problem with Laxatives for Travel Constipation

Whether labeled “natural” or not, most laxatives work by stimulating your colon to force things out. The downsides?

  • Unpredictable timing – Relief can strike hours later, at the worst moment.

  • Cramping & urgency – Painful muscle contractions can ruin your day.

  • Risk of diarrhea – Laxatives often overshoot, leaving you worse off.

At home, this might be inconvenient. On a trip, it can mean missed activities, embarrassing moments, or even dangerous situations.

 

A Better Way: Prevention, Not Panic

After my Big Island incident, I dove into researching the root causes of travel constipation:

  • Routine disruption

  • Dehydration

  • Diet changes

  • Reduced movement

  • Gut microbiome imbalance

Instead of forcing relief after the fact, I wanted a way to keep digestion moving naturally — with no emergencies. That’s how Vacation Mornings was born.

Meet Vacation Mornings

Vacation Mornings is a daily travel supplement designed to prevent travel constipation without triggering diarrhea or discomfort.

Each stick includes:

  • Psyllium husk – Gentle bulk-forming fiber for regularity

  • Probiotics & digestive enzymes – Support gut balance and adapt to new foods

  • Magnesium citrate – Draw water into the colon to ease stool passage

  • Electrolytes – Keep hydration levels high

  • Chinese Mint Leaf Extract – Soothe gut and relieve bloating & gas

  • L-theanine & L-glutamine – Calm the gut-brain axis and support gut lining

Take one stick daily starting 1–2 days before travel and throughout your trip. Just mix with water for a light citrus taste — no cramping, no surprises.

Bottom Line

Travel constipation is common, but laxatives aren’t the answer — prevention is. With proper hydration, fiber, microbiome support, and a product like Vacation Mornings, you can travel confidently and comfortably.

💛 Ready to travel without constipation or emergencies?
Order Vacation Mornings Today →


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