Optimize Nutrition on the Go
But finding healthy food can sometimes be a challenge when you are on the road. Traveling often requires some degree of planning and preparation when you want to stick with a specific diet.
Amy Bragagnini, RD, a spokesperson from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in Michigan, says that it’s often wise to plan on bringing your own snacks rather than purchasing them while you are traveling, especially by car.
“Gas station sandwiches are not my favorite option when taking a long car trip,” she says. “Many times they come with high-sodium lunch meat and refined bread, and are topped with a sandwich spread that may be high in saturated fat.”
Bragagnini recommends planning for food on the go with your fellow travelers. “Be sure to include protein, vegetables or fruit, healthy fat, and complex carbohydrates,” she says. “You could bring mini sandwiches on whole-grain bread, for example. Top the sandwiches with hummus, tomatoes, turkey, and a little cheese.”
She also suggests handheld wraps made with a whole-grain flour wrap and roasted red and yellow peppers, white bean hummus, and goat cheese.
“Another option could be a quinoa and veggie salad packed in smaller, individual plastic containers or mini containers of yogurt or low-sodium nuts,” she says.
Talk to your doctor and a registered dietitian about what foods are best for your situation, especially if you have additional health concerns.
Read the full article here
