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Healthy tips for the blues traveler


 

Frequent flier miles got the body out of whack? Many of us are flying, gaining all kinds of miles as loyal customers for the airlines while also gaining a few pounds along the way. Traveling not only upsets the body clock but can also trigger aches and pains. Dehydration plus eating poorly while traveling plays havoc with the body. Frequent travelers do have some options. It is just a matter of making a few smart choices.

Here are some healthy strategies to keep in mind for the next time air travel is in the itinerary:

  • Preparation—Once the destination of a trip is established, plans when and where your meals will be eaten. Make a list of foods you like to eat during your flight or after you arrive at your hotel. Keep the food you bring along simple.
  • Cost—Try and shop for travel food when arranging a weekly grocery run. This saves time and money. Toting your own food will decrease your travel budget since eating at airport kiosks and hotels can be pricey. In the long run, bringing healthy food from home will slow down the costs of medical visits.
  • Time—A small tote of edibles from home will take time to prepare but it is worth it. Organization will keep you focused. Lists are an excellent way to decide what to bring. Also have a certain time of the day for packing your “fly away bag.”
  • Network—If you travel frequently with the same colleagues or friends, discuss healthy food to bring. This offers a chance to share each others food. A recipe exchange can be set up for healthy dishes that pack well.

Setting an example by bringing healthy fare goes along way. Setting the tone for good healthy food will be noticed by co-workers, children and family.

Here are some healthy bites to fill your tote:

  • Hummus with raw vegetables
  • Boiled eggs
  • Miso soup packets
  • Good quality cereal with low fat, almond or soy milk.
  • Quinoa, whole grain or couscous salad
  • Baked yams; add nuts

Always drink plenty of pure, filtered water while up in the air or sip on a nice herbal tea. Peppermint tea is great for digestion and very soothing.
 

Embark on a journey with smarter food choices and practice nutrition on a daily basis. Ultimately, altering air fare will set you on a path to optimal health.
 

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, Healthy Travel Examiner

Cheryl Murphy, Bauman Certified Nutrition Educator and Lifestyle coach, nutrition blogger and a Flight Attendant for the past 15 years focuses on holistic nutrition outlines for flight crew, frequent flyers and people under stress. Get in touch with Cheryl and fly healthy on Cheryl's website, ...

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