Traveling can be synonymous with the holidays. With so many families spread out across states and countries, the holidays can be a time of airplane rides and road trips. The holidays already challenge healthy nutrition but when adding travel eating to the equation, we can definitely find ourselves in unhealthy territory.
Here are a few tips to help you travel through the holidays a little healthier.
1) Remember that when you reach your final destination, you will probably have plenty of food waiting for you. Try to make healthier choices on your way there like leaving out the fries and the soda.
2) It's likely that when you reach your destination, you will have many of your favorite items, so don't waste calories on things you don't really like or enjoy. Stick to the items that make your mouth water and leave everything else alone.
3) For long road trips, pack snacks such as nuts, dried frut and baby carrots. This will keep you satisfied and you will not have to make as many stops. Plus you will not be as tempted to buy snacks at the gas station convenience store.
4) Pack a peanut butter sandwich or hummus wrap if you are going to be flying. Most airports and airplanes do not have a variety of healthy food options. In addition, the food is expensive. Pack a banana or nuts to hold you over until you reach your destination. If you have to buy food, stick to the package of nuts at the magazine store, the fruit cup or oatmeal at the coffee shop.
5) Always, always, always drink water.
Traveling doesn't have to be bad for your health. It only takes some small changes to your regular travel routine and you will fly or drive your way right into better health!
Olivia Moses, DrPH
Administrator, Wellness Program