Healthy Eating Tips for Long Haulers | West Coast Enterprises
Eating healthy isn’t the easiest thing to do when you’re spending long periods of time on the road. Between the fast food stops and gas station snacks, it’s easy to grab something quick and unhealthy when you start feeling hungry.
Instead of filling your body with greasy, unhealthy foods, use these tips to boost your health while on the road.
Keep Healthy Foods on Hand
Keeping healthy options in your truck—that don’t require refrigeration—is a great option when you’re in need of quick nourishment. Fruits, including apples, bananas and oranges, are great additions to your snack supply. Fruit can also aid in digestion and boost energy levels, keeping you focused for the long day ahead.
Another great shelf-stable snack option includes nuts and seeds. These may be messy in your cab, so opting for a larger nut, like peanuts or cashews, would be beneficial. Nuts and seeds offer high amounts of protein and healthy fats that keep you satisfied with only a small serving.
If you’d prefer to go the protein bar route, choose options that are on the healthier side. There are some pre-made bars that are made with whole foods, while others are filled with processed ingredients. The key here is to choose the correct bar to keep handy in your truck.
Keep Portions Small
When you feel a snack attack coming on, it’s easy to eat, eat, eat until you feel full. Chances are, you’re actually eating more than you need to.
This can cause bloating, digestive upset and feelings of sluggishness. Since you’re driving for long periods of time, the last thing you want to feel is sleepy.
Instead, eat smaller portions and eat until you feel satisfied. Eating slowly can also help you recognize that satisfied feeling without going overboard. It may be beneficial to eat five to six smaller meals daily, instead of two to three larger meals.
Opt for Healthier Choices
Stopping at a fast food restaurant or gas station for a meal is inevitable. Instead of ordering something greasy, opt for a grilled chicken sandwich, salads or protein boxes.
You can start small and add in a salad here and there, or order a burger without added bacon.
When you’re sitting for long periods of time, you want to make sure you’re putting healthy foods into your body. Making small changes can have a big impact on your overall energy, digestion and health as a long haul trucker.
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