One of the questions I hear from people preparing to move to Mexico is, “What do I need to know about staying healthy there?”
The good news? Staying healthy in Mexico doesn't mean giving up the things you enjoy or constantly worrying about what might make you sick. It means understanding a few differences, developing some sensible habits, and knowing what to watch out for.
I've traveled throughout Mexico for nearly 50 years and have lived here full-time for about 10 years. Along the way, I've learned a few lessons the hard way about maintaining my health in Mexico. Here's what I think newcomers should know.
Water: Get Used to Purified
One of the first adjustments is getting used to not drinking tap water or brushing your teeth with it.
Purified water is inexpensive and readily available throughout Mexico. I keep a supply at home and use it for drinking and brushing my teeth. Tap water is generally fine for showering, washing your hands and face, and normal household activities.
Always check that bottled water has an intact seal. Water quality varies by location, so when traveling, ask residents what they recommend.
Another option is installing a reverse osmosis filtration system at home and replacing the filters according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Food: Enjoy It, But Be Sensible
You don't need to give up salads, fresh fruit or street food just because you've moved to Mexico.
At home, wash and disinfect fruits and vegetables before eating them raw. Products specifically designed for disinfecting produce are readily available in Mexico.
When eating out, pay attention to how food is handled, particularly at unfamiliar restaurants or food vendors. Be cautious with food that has been sitting out, and ask locals which places they trust.
Even with precautions, stomach problems can happen. Keeping oral rehydration salts or electrolyte packets on hand is a good idea. An appropriate anti-diarrheal medication may also be useful, depending on your circumstances. I’m also a big believer in taking activated charcoal capsules at the first sign of distress.
Seek medical attention for concerning symptoms such as blood in your stool, high fever, severe abdominal pain or signs of significant dehydration.
Altitude and Sun: Two Things That Surprise Newcomers
Mexico isn't all beaches and tropical weather. Some popular destinations are at considerable elevations.
San Miguel de Allende, where I live, sits at approximately 6,300 feet (1,920 meters) above sea level. If you're arriving from a much lower elevation, you may experience headaches, fatigue, difficulty sleeping or shortness of breath while adjusting.
Take it easy during your first few days and give your body time to acclimate. If you have medical concerns about high-altitude travel, consult your doctor before you go.
The sun can also be surprisingly intense, even when temperatures feel comfortable. Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and seeking shade during the strongest midday sun can make a real difference.
Your Health Needs Depend on Where You Live
Mexico is a big country, and conditions vary considerably by region.
In a high-elevation city like San Miguel, the dry air may leave you with dry skin, chapped lips or nasal dryness. A moisturizer, lip balm and adequate hydration can help.
On the coast, you may face the opposite challenge: heat, humidity and more mosquitoes. Keep insect repellent available when traveling to warmer, tropical areas.
What you need to think about in San Miguel can be very different from what you need to consider in Mérida, Puerto Vallarta or Huatulco.
Bring Your Medications and Know Their Generic Names
If you take prescription medications, bring an adequate supply when moving or traveling to Mexico, and keep them in your carry-on when flying.
It's also wise to maintain a list of your medications, including their generic names, dosages and frequency. Brand names can differ in Mexico, and generic names help doctors and pharmacists identify what you take.
I also recommend keeping a small first-aid kit, basic stomach remedies, oral rehydration packets, sunscreen, mosquito repellent and any spare eyeglasses you might need.
Don't Overthink It
This is probably the most important advice I can offer.
You don't have to be afraid of Mexico.
Millions of people live healthy, active lives here every day. You simply need to understand your environment and make a few adjustments.
After a while, using purified water, carrying sunscreen and taking sensible precautions with food become second nature.
That's the key to successfully living in Mexico: learn the differences, make sensible adjustments, and then get on with enjoying your life here.
That's what I did—and after nearly 10 years of living in Mexico, I can tell you the adjustments have been more than worth it.
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