Diet While Traveling
We all know that a balanced nutritious diet is essential for good health, but it's easy to overlook this when the stresses and complications of traveling force us to make food compromises. From grabbing a few candy bars in an airport gift shop to hitting a fast food joint en route to a tourist location, many of us let our diets slip when we are away from home. With a little planning and determination, however, it is possible to eat smart even when we're not totally sure where or what our next meal will be.
Monica Montes, R.D. is co-founder of Pasadena, California's N.E.W. Health-Salud Nueva, Inc, a consulting company that integrates the services of registered dietitians, massage therapists, and certified personal trainers. As a registered dietitian with a number of related specialties and certifications, she has a wealth of knowledge and experience in blending nutrition, exercise and wellness principles, and is one of the leading voices for healthy living in the Latino community. Her she offers advice for maintaining a healthy diet while traveling:
- Eat 3 meals a day.
First and foremost, says Montes, you should remember that your body needs three meals a day. It's easy to skip meals when travel plans disrupt your normal routine, but you should always make an effort to have a good breakfast, lunch, and dinner no matter where you are.
- Plan ahead.
While traveling, you should avoid being stuck in a position where there is nothing to eat but higher fat fried foods. This means planning ahead, knowing where you will be at mealtimes, and arranging to have low fat options whenever possible. If you do find yourself having to eat very rich, creamy dishes or high fat foods, just have a smaller portion.
- Bring snacks.
Snacks are also very important when you are traveling, as you may often find yourself in places where no food is available. When packing snacks for your pockets, briefcase or backpack, choose healthy options like pretzels, rice cakes, low fat mozzarella, or nuts.
- Carry bottled water.
Water is key to maintaining a nutritious diet, and staying hydrated is very important for your body and mind. Depending on you travel destination, local water may not be safe to drink, so carry safe bottled water with you at all times.
- Eat well and enjoy your trip.
If you follow these tips while traveling, says Montes, you will not only nourish your body, but will also enjoy yourself and stay on track to reach your personal health goals.
For more about nutrition while traveling or while at home, check out the following organizations or websites:
MedicineNet: Stay Healthy While You Travel
www.medicinenet.com
PalmettoHealth: Travel Healthy Diet Ideas
www.plamettohealth.org
AAA: How to Take Your Diet on Vacation
www.viamagazine.com
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