Eat healthy when life is up in the air—literally—like on a plane. Travelling and eating healthy isn’t as complicated as you think!
When you don’t have the comfort of your own kitchen to rely on, you are more likely to give in to food that you normally wouldn’t. I get it; it’s hard when you don’t have control and you’re out of your element. It seems effortless to grab a burger and fries or a random snack bar because it is convenient. The following are tips on how to eat healthy when you are at the airport or on vacation. You will likely travel at some point in your life, and here are some simple tips to keep you on track.
Plan Ahead
If you plan ahead, you can avoid all the junky food that contains next to no nutrients while on the go. There are so many processed foods such as candy, chips, hamburgers, and fries that are easy to get but should be avoided. Go for a grocery shopping trip a few days before your vacation to buy satisfying snacks that you and your family enjoy. The night before you leave, pack portion controlled snacks to bring with you to stay on track. Great ideas for snacks to bring in case you get hungry include almonds, fresh fruit, homemade trail mix, fresh cut up vegetables with hummus, or packets of nut butter. It’s a great idea to have these snacks on hand at all times if you’re at the airport, walking around during the day, or in the car if you are driving to your destination.
Eat Protein and Fat
Eat a snack or meal with protein, and fat. If you load up on these two macro nutrients, you will likely stay full for hours to keep you alert and keep your energy levels steady. You will be surprised to see your cravings subside and have the energy to keep going. Some great options are avocado, olives, coconut chips, nuts, seeds, a protein Sol Good bar, or a Sunwarrior protein shake (just bring the powder with you and shake it up at the airport).
Take Cooler
If you are taking a road trip, buy a small-insulated cooler and stuff it with ice packs to store your perishable goods. Pack a variety of snacks that will last you for the whole ride there. You won’t have to worry about being starving and being stuck with stopping at a gas station or fast food restaurant where there are minimal (if any) healthy options. Packing items like fresh fruits, vegetables, avocado, hummus, avocado, olives, and dark chocolate should help to keep you nourished on the road.
Be Careful What You Sip
People don’t realize how much sugar can be in the average drink. Well, I think at this point most people do, they just choose to ignore the details. There is not only added sugar in beverages like sodas, lattes, and juices, but there are also chemicals and extra calories that you shouldn’t be putting into your body. Drink water, coconut water, nut milks, unsweetened iced tea, or herbal tea.
Don’t Rely on Caffeine
Even though you might be dealing with a lack of sleep from waking up early to leave for your trip, don’t drink countless cups of coffee to keep you awake. Make sure you have a good night’s rest the night before, stay hydrated, and eat frequently to keep your energy levels stable.
Healthy Grab & Go
Although you see many unhealthy options on the go, there are also many unprocessed foods available nowadays at the airport, on the road, or in coffee shops. Choose fresh foods like fruit, cut-up veggies, salads, dried un-sulfured fruit, coconut chips, seaweed, raw & unsalted nuts, oatmeal, hummus, and crackers.
Remember to Eat Your Fruits & Veggies
Make sure that you are getting enough fresh vegetables. For example, if you are at a restaurant at the airport or on the road, ask for extra vegetables on the side, get a salad for your meal or snack, or ask to add vegetables to your pasta or sandwich. You can also often find juice or smoothie bars on the go. Just ask for what’s fresh and have them make you a simple customized blend that doesn’t have any added sugars or juices.
It is not impossible to stay healthy when there are minimal options on the go. Stay away from junk food at the fast-food restaurants and choose healthy options instead, or bring your own if you are able to! It is definitely feasible to keep to your healthy diet on the go as long as you plan ahead.
