Eating a balanced diet while traveling can be a challenge when many times our only choices seem to be limited to fried, deep fried, or batter-dipped-deep-fried foods. But with the following tips, you can stay healthy and well-fed, even on the road:
Pack a Meal
Leave yourself a few extra minutes before you head to the airport to prepare a healthy meal you can take with you. In a plastic container, layer a lean protein (turkey, reduced-fat cheese, or slivered almonds), vegetables, and a low-fat dressing over rice or mixed greens. With a little forethought, you'll be prepared when temptation hits.
Listen to Your Body
Eat when your body tells you its hungry, not when your watch or the local time zone says you should be. Rate your hunger on a scale of one to ten (one being full and ten being starving) and eat when you're at a seven or eight. Don't wait until you reach a ten, though, as you might be so hungry, you'll jump at anything offered to you.
Choose Wisely
If you're stuck in a food court or at a fast food restaurant, make the best decision you can with the options given you. Avoid entree portions, which are generally oversized. Instead, choose from the children's menu or order a couple of appetizers. If you're in a fast food restaurant, opt for a chicken salad or baked potato (without the sour cream) instead of a burger. If you're at a convenience store and need a snack fast, choose a combination of protein and fiber, such as nuts and fruit or yogurt.
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