Traveling can be fun, but also stressful. One of the things that many people complain about when traveling is the lack of healthy food choices at airports. I have noticed a trend toward more healthy choices at airports in the last six months. So, I am optimistic about the future of eating healthier while traveling.
The food options I see at airports are usually, the Starbucks, news stand snacks, fast foods, bars and a few restaurants that may have a couple of salads or vegetables on the menu. One negative thing about the abundance of food options is that many of them are more “convenience” foods than nutritious ones; so making healthy decisions is not always easy.
Here are a few helpful tips that can make your travel healthier in the food category. Especially over the winter and holidays it’s not uncommon to get stuck in airports for long periods of time. When this happens, many of us, tend to go snack or eat as a way of entertaining ourselves while waiting for our flight. So, I suggest, preparing a few snacks or a meal at home, before leaving on your trip. As long as they are prepackaged foods or are in clear containers, you can bring snacks to enjoy while you wait to board the flight or even eat while in the air.
Healthy, organic, snacks like: fruit, nuts, whole grain, gluten-free, crackers, bite-sized raw veggies and sugar free, organic, raw food or granola bars easily fit into a carry on bag, and will keep you from needing to buy anything more than a drink at the airport. I like to make a whole grain, gluten free, sandwich, which is delicious and easy to eat. I also love to take an already peeled orange or grapefruit, that have been separated into bit size pieces. Along with this, I put in a few napkins, paper towels and some non toxic, hand cleaning wipes, so I can clean my hands before and after having my snack. This is especially important if traveling with small children.
Another idea is to eat a full meal before leaving your home, negating the need to snack or feast while at the airport, and giving you enough time to begin digesting before boarding the plane. Preparing or choosing your own food ensures that you make the best possible choices – and have no reason to consume something undesirable. I always take a great book, magazine or games (cards, backgammon, mad libs) with me, so I have something entertaining to do while I am waiting. Then I don’t feel the need to entertain myself eating junk at a local food court.
Research the airport, the city, and the hotels. Each airport offers different options for dining, and you may overlook some great options. Gift shops, kiosks and the news stands often sell snacks like fruit and mixed nuts, which are preferable to sugary and fatty treats. But read the ingredient list on the back. Many of these snacks have added sugar in them and the packaging can be misleading.
You never know when a flight will be cancelled and your layover extended, so make sure to be prepared for emergencies. Knowing the area around you can be very important. I was recently stuck in Boston overnight and managed to do some quick research on the city around me. Reviews from other travelers regarding the Boston hotels and restaurants made it quick and easy to find places that catered to my healthy lifestyle.
Select foods carefully. If you have to eat from a restaurant, don’t choose anything too heavy, even if you are facing a long flight. Food that will settle in the stomach can cause discomfort during a flight, and even increase the necessity of using the airplane’s bathroom. Avoid sugary and caffeinated foods, which will spike your blood sugar, can make you jittery and are dehydrating. Eating fried foods can cause stomachaches and queasiness. Eating, wholesome, well-balanced meals can ensure a more comfortable flight.
Drink lots of water, coconut water, or tea. Sodas, coffee, and alcohol can cause dehydration. Staying hydrated while traveling is extremely important. So, splurge on a bottle of good spring water when you get past security, before boarding your plane.
If you are concerned about the price of buying water, you can bring an empty bottle that can be refilled multiple times. This allows you to drink as much as you want for no cost.
So, next time you are leaving on a trip, take a few healthy snacks with you. Preparing ahead of time can save your trip and your waistline. Happy Traveling!
Healthful Eating While Traveling
By
Nancy Addison & Cole Millen
copyright@nancyaddison,colemillen2013
