Keeping a careful eye on your diet is particularly important when you travel. You’re going to need lots of energy to fuel your adventures, but if you’re not sure where to start then we have five suggestions for what you should and shouldn’t eat while you’re away.

Do: Eat healthy snacks

Routines get put on the back burner when you travel and meals are no exception, so it’s definitely worth packing some snacks in your carry-on and everyday bags. This is especially true if you have a condition like diabetes or are pregnant. (Need some advice about travelling with a medical condition? Insurancewith’s guide will answer all your questions.)

While snacks aren’t a meal replacement, they’ll keep your energy levels up and hunger pangs at bay, especially if you’re travelling from one city or country to another and you’re not sure when you’re going to eat again. This is especially important if you have a medical condition or are pregnant. (Need some advice about travelling)

Healthy on-the-go snacks:

• Nuts like almonds and cashews
• Fresh and dried fruit
• Hummus with crudités like raw vegetables and wholemeal crackers
• Hard-boiled eggs

Don’t: Eat too much in one go

Travelling can be exhausting and leave us feeling more hungry than normal. However, eating more than usual isn’t the answer. When you have an overly large meal, it sends a signal to your brain that you’re stockpiling food, which means the calories will be stored as fat. This can lead to a sluggish feeling, which isn’t what you want when you’re on a business trip or about to go exploring.

Do: Eat balanced meals whenever you can

A balanced meal normally consists of protein (e.g. eggs, lean meat, and fish), wholemeal carbohydrates (such as wholemeal bread, pasta, and rice) and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Look for these ingredients when you’re ordering or shopping for food, and you’ll be all set. For a complete guide to a balanced diet, check out the NHS’s website.

Do: Wash down your food with lots of water

Keeping hydrated is vital for your health, and nothing quenches your thirst quite like water does. Carry a refillable water bottle with you everywhere you go, sip from it regularly, and top it up whenever you can — you’ll notice the difference almost instantly.

Why is drinking water so important?

• It improves your memory and concentration
• It flushes out toxins
• It replaces water lost by the body (such as sweat)
• It helps the body to deliver oxygen
• It regulates your body temperature

Don’t: Miss out on trying local dishes

Trying new foods is part of the fun of travel. Fortunately, it’s possible to look after your health and enjoy sampling the local cuisine at the same time.

Scout out your nearest supermarket or farmers market and pick up some fresh fruit, vegetables, and grains, then prepare quick, easy meals in your kitchen (if you have one). Not only will this ensure you’re getting a good balance of nutrients every day, but it’s also much better for your budget.

Of course, you’ll still want to eat out, so do some research into the kind of food you can expect before you set off. You don’t need to choose the healthy option 100% of the time, but even making sure your meal includes plenty of veggies can make a real difference.

Curious about which countries have the healthiest diets? This article will tell you.

Published: 2018-03-01 11:31:51