Choosing healthy food options when traveling can be difficult because of the limited food options in an airport. Eat a meal before traveling or bring food on the plane to avoid buying unhealthy food. If you need to buy food at an airport, follow some general guidelines for healthy options. Larger airports will have more variety for healthy food, and if time permits, you can walk around the terminal to peruse the healthiest eating options.
Fast Food
Fast food usually dominates airport eating options. Make healthy choices by avoiding heavy foods such as pizza, large hamburgers, hot dogs, baked pastries, fried foods, bacon, mayonnaise, or ranch or blue cheese dressing. Choose a sandwich, salad or broth-based soup, if possible. Sandwich shops can provide a healthy, quick meal; pair a sandwich with a piece of fruit, baked chips or salad. Drink plenty of water and avoid high-sugar sodas or juices to keep calories down.
If possible, avoid
Snack Shops
Smaller airports may have snack shops as your only option, or they may be all you have time for. Some healthy options can still be found in these stores. Choose a protein bar with less than 3 g of saturated fat, trail mix with nuts and dried fruit, fresh fruit, yogurt or baked chips. Coffee shops may also have options such as oatmeal, sandwiches or yogurt to go.
Sit Down
Some restaurants in airports may have a symbol on healthy menu options, but many restaurants will not have nutrition information available in the airport. Foods such as grilled meats, steamed vegetables or fresh produce are key words to look for. Some airports have a wide variety of ethnic cuisine, which can increase your healthy options.
Beverages
It is very important to stay hydrated while traveling. Bringing water through the security area is against security protocol, but you can pack an empty water bottle and fill it at a drinking fountain once past security. Water bottles can also be purchased in terminals, and many airports also have vending and shops in the secure areas. Avoid high calorie drinks such as soda pop, sweetened juices, teas or lemonade and drink water to keep your liquid calorie consumption down.
Member Comments