Why do travelers get stomach problems (diarrhea) in Hurghada and how to avoid it?
Based on 2 discussions with 3 participants · Last activity: 5 days ago
TL;DR
It's usually not the food itself but the water and ice: drink only sealed bottled water, avoid ice of unknown origin, and be careful with raw unwashed vegetables.
What the community said
The main cause of stomach upset isn't 'Egyptian food' itself but the water, ice, and poorly stored/washed produce. Tap water is off-limits — even brush your teeth with bottled water. Rule of thumb: drink only sealed bottled water without ice, eat hot food hot, be cautious with raw salads and veggies, and only eat fruit you can peel yourself.
5 days ago Bottled water only, no ice
Swallowing pool or sea water can trigger an upset stomach — locals recommend drinking cola to help prevent poisoning symptoms.
5 days ago Cola for stomach upset
Often the issue isn't bacterial contamination but the mineral composition of local desalinated water — it has a laxative effect similar to Glauber's salt.
5 days ago Desalinated water with laxative effect