BootsnAll Travel Community

all the booklets and travel guides seem to advise against eating dairy products (cheese, milk, ice cream...) in developing countries. I'm not sure the reason for this. How do you all feel about it? Do you ignore that suggestion? Always, sometimes, never?

What about things like fountain pop? We've had it in Cairo a couple of times, and I'm starting to suspect that it's either that, or something else in McDonald's food that is upsetting our stomachs (they don't seem to offer bottled beverages at McD's). We've eaten there a couple of times because it's a familiar type of comfort food, but now I'm not so sure.

what about fresh fruits and veggies and salad (you know the peel it, cook it or leave it rule)? we've been eating the (raw, unpeeled) veggies that have been offered to us at the hotel, they seemed fine enough. didn't get sick from them yet.

what are your thoughts on all these pieces of advice? and your experience in ignoring it? what kinds of things have typically resulted in you getting sick on the road?

thanks

I tend to be careful for a week or so, but after that I let go a little. The dairy products thing is actually news to me - I have ever made any effort to avoid it - buit then I dont ever drink milk, so it would be cheeste and yoghurt. Is that supposed to be bad then??

I am mainly careful with the water, and early on with salads & fruit....but I find I quickly find my bearings as to what feels like the right level of concern.

I think the dairy products warning is most likely because many countries don't require pasteurization. I don't consume that much dairy anyway, but the times I have while traveling have not caused any problems for me.

Travelers diarrhea is a constant while traveling (in more ways than one!), no matter how careful you are trying to be.

I wouldn't worry about dairy as much as I would worry about hand washing by yourself and by the person serving your food.

Take along some Purell, some generic Imodium and a couple packs of Moist Towelettes.