By Nicola Cucuiet and Sylvia Klinger
Eating healthy while traveling has always been difficult. The main reason being, that there are a limited number of places that provide you with enough variety and high quality meals that meet your dietary requirements. In order to maintain a healthy diet while on the road the key is to put a little effort in planning ahead. While this is often easier said that done, planning ahead is not that difficult. You can start with preparing some sandwiches using whole grain bread, a slice of cheese and if you have any leftovers like any kind of grilled vegetables feel free to incorporate them into your sandwiches. But they can be as simple as good old PB and J – my favorite! A peanut butter and jelly sandwich, which is portable and can stay in your briefcase while you are in the run.
You can also pack a number of healthy snacks , but these will also need a little attention: pack some baby carrots, slices of cucumbers, some olives, baby tomatoes as well as plenty of fruit. In a separate bag pack some orange slices, some grapes, apple slices, or dried fruit with raw nuts or granola bars. The key is to pack foods that are ready to eat. Having healthy items to snack while on the road will keep you from having to choose high calorie option to satisfy your hunger.
Another important aspect while traveling is to remember to maintain your feeding schedule. Even if you are traveling, it is very important to have your meals the same way you would at home. Try to stick to your normal eating schedule in order to prevent you from eating to much or to frequently. Being on the road does not make for an excuse to temporally forget about you meal schedule, or the importance of them.
But if you find yourself in a situation where you have to eat at a drive thru restaurant, try to focus on options that will help you reach your dietary needs . Order a sandwich with lean protein and vegetables, a soup, and a salad to go with you main course, rather than high calorie entrees. Most restaurants tend to emphasize on quantity rather than quality so don’ t be afraid to order a half of portion or even split a portion with your traveling partner, if you have one. Share deserts, if you have to have one, as they pack on a lot of sugar and fat. Instead eat some fruits that will satisfy you sweet tooth but at the same time provide you with dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals to keep you feeling energized and happy.
When faced with fast food restaurants, try choosing those that let you choose what ingredients you would like eat. This way you can skip the mayo and opt for more vegetables as well as whole grain bread and lean meats.
Live life and love it. Eat well.
