Jan 12 5 Ways to Eat Healthy While Traveling

Traveling is stressful. Traveling for business is its own kind of stressful. Rushing from the airport to meetings to the hotel can cause us to make some poor eating decisions. Here are a few tips to help you, the busy business traveler, eat healthier while you’re on the road.

 

Pack a Healthy Meal for the Plane Ride

Take some time the night before your trip to pack a healthy breakfast/lunch for the plane ride. Put together some fruit, your favorite homemade sandwich (wheat bread is a plus), and some plain nuts to snack on. Once on the plane, drink plenty of water. Not only will this keep you hydrated and awake, but it will also keep your hunger at bay.

 

 Skip the Juice and Soda

Just because it says fruit juice it doesn’t mean it’s good for you. Fruit juice contains high amounts of sugar. And we all know sodas are filled with sugar and unnecessary calories. If you need caffeine to start your day, I suggest coffee or tea. Use skim milk and low-calorie sweeteners if you can’t take it plain.

But remember — water is your best bet, no calories and it keeps you hydrated!

Make Lunch Your Biggest Meal

During business travel, many times you’re invited out for lunch, or lunch is provided during meetings. If it’s possible, you should try and make lunch your biggest meal of the day. This will let you enjoy a lighter dinner. Pick something you know will keep you full for most of the day. Ask for fruits/vegetables in place of carb-filled sides.

Go Vegetarian for Dinner

Since you had a big lunch, dinner should be easy to figure out! The healthiest route to take is to be a vegetarian at dinner. This way you’re avoiding all the fat that comes along with dinner meats. Whole grain pasta with a side salad isn’t only delicious but also good for you! However, if you absolutely need some protein with your dinner, chicken, beans and fish are your healthiest options. Skip the potato and get double the vegetable side.

Just Say “NO” to Fast Food

We know it’s so easy to go up to the drive-thru and have your meal in your hand four minutes later, especially when you have 20 minutes to make your connecting flight, but think of all the fat! You must avoid fast food at all cost. Not only will it add sodium and fat to your body, but it will make you feel tired, less productive and sometimes sick. Instead of the convenience of fast food, look for fresh options. A cup of fruit, parfait, sandwich or pasta salad is fast, delicious and healthy.