Eating Healthy While Traveling

Whether traveling for work or pleasure, most of us find it hard maintain a healthy diet when we’re on the go. Here are some tips to keep you eating well, no matter where your travels take you.

Water on the go

When you fly, take a refillable bottle of water with you because the cabin pressure and dry, recirculated air is dehydrating. Make sure your bottle is empty while passing through security, but fill it once you get to the other side.

There are lots of good choices in water bottles that can keep your drink cold long-term, so make your bottle a favorite companion. Take it with you on car rides, strolls to the park, to the pool and even at your desk when working.

Most of us do a good job of staying hydrated, but when routines change—as in vacation and travel, it may be hard to remember to drink—especially because you can be dehydrated before you feel thirsty.

Balance your meals

Part of the fun of travel is trying new restaurants. But eating too much food at too many restaurants can leave you feeling bloated and sluggish. In addition, many restaurant portions are oversized and high in calories, fat and sodium. The key to enjoying meals without jeopardizing your health? Look for balance when you order.

Choose restaurants that have nutritional information online and search the menu to check calorie, fat and sodium contents so you can plan your order in advance. If you crave a high-calorie dish such as fried shrimp, pair it with a salad. Split a dessert with your tablemate, or eat half of your meal and put the rest in the refrigerator for lunch the next day.

If you’ve heavily indulged one day, look for balance the next day by loading up on juicy fruits and crisp vegetables, drinking lots of water and eating lean proteins such as grilled or baked fish, chicken or turkey.

Pack snacks

When you’re on the go, you are still going to feel hungry. Prepare for those hunger pangs by packing healthy snacks so you can avoid convenience store or drive-through cuisine. Fresh fruit, meal bars that are rel="noopener noreferrer" low in added sugar, and nuts such as unsalted pistachios will keep you satisfied through your journey.

Eat fiber

Travel can throw your body’s digestive system off, but fiber can help you stay regular so you don’t feel bloated or constipated. Vegetables and prunes are good sources of fiber. As you eat fiber, be sure to drink water to keep the fiber moving along.

By following these tips for healthy eating, you’ll be able to make smart food choices no matter where your travels take you.