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How to Eat Healthy on the Road

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(1 Ratings)

While traveling or taking a long drive, most people are often tempted by those fast food signs that peek over the side of the highway. It is easy to give in to temptation when hunger strikes, going for a high-calorie, low-nutrition meal just for the sake of convenience. It is possible to eat healthy on the road--you just have to plan ahead. Read on to learn how to eat healthy on the road.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Picnic Pack
  • Ice or Cold Pack
  • Bottle or Thermos of Water
  1. Step 1

    Eat breakfast before you step foot in the car. It really is the most important meal of the day, giving you the energy you need to get started in the morning. If you skip it, you will end up ravenous by lunchtime, which can lead to poor food choices.

  2. Step 2

    Prepare your lunch or dinner in advance if possible. Packing a healthy lunch in a cooler gives you total control over what you eat. Picnic packs are a convenient way to accomplish this goal. They come with everything you need to enjoy your meal, such as insulated cooler compartments, plates, cups, utensils and cloth napkins.

  3. Step 3

    Pack healthy, well-balanced meals that travel well and won't be a mess to clean up. Some ideas include sandwiches, fresh fruit and vegetables, assortments of cubed cheese, vinegar-based pasta salads or leftovers in a reusable plastic container. Pack enough ice in the cooler to keep food cold throughout your trip.

  4. Step 4

    Drink plenty of water. Whether you are in a vehicle, train or airplane, the air can get stuffy and dry, leading to dehydration. Thirst can also be mistaken for hunger, causing you to reach for a snack when you don't really need it.

  5. Step 5

    Pull over and take a break while you eat. Eating while driving isn't only dangerous, it can cause you to mindlessly continue eating beyond the point of satiety.

  6. Step 6

    Make healthy choices if you must stop at a fast food joint for a meal. Skip the fries, mayo, cheese, milkshakes and mystery sauce and go for grilled chicken, veggie burgers, salads, fresh fruit cups and water. Pick whole wheat over white bread when offered a choice.

Tips & Warnings
  • Give yourself a long-lasting energy boost by combining protein and whole grains, like egg and low fat cheese on a whole wheat English muffin.
  • Grab individual packets of condiments the next time you are in a restaurant to use while on the road.
  • Avoid mayonnaise-based foods when packing for picnics or travel, as they tend to spoil quickly.
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