Keep Road Trips Healthy With These Foods
By Rachel Carver
It is common to take a road trip the last few weeks of summer. You have mapped your route. Your bags are packed. But how do you keep your travels healthy?
Most packaged snacks contain high amounts of added sugar, sodium, and refined grains. These snacks can leave you feeling sluggish and make it harder to focus on the road. Try focusing on snacks that will keep your energy levels up and help you concentrate.
To avoid stressing about food while you travel, plan some snacks in advance. It is also perfectly acceptable to indulge in a treat, such as a sweet treat from your favorite childhood bakery.
Here are some snacks you can pack.
Peanut Butter Sandwich Fold Overs
Who doesn't like peanut butter? Keep things simple by layering a slice of whole-grain bread with peanut butter. Fold the piece of bread and toss it in a sandwich baggy. You can easily enjoy this snack even if you are the driver.
Walnuts and Grapes
Research has found walnuts to have brain-protecting nutrients that enhance concentration and processing speed. Grab a handful from the bag as you drive. You can also eat them with fruit such as grapes. Grapes are high in water, which will keep you hydrated.
Mini Bento Snack Pack
Small bento boxes make great snack packs. Add some cheese, fruit, nuts, and veggies to your snack box. The protein and fiber in these items will keep your appetite in check.
Choose these snacks if you need to buy something on the road.
Nuts and Fresh Fruit
Many packaged snacks are ultra-processed. Nuts and fresh fruit give you a whole food and protein. Look for the nuts without added sugar. Any available fresh fruit will taste good with nuts.
Yogurt Parfait
It is natural to want something sweet during vacation. A pre-made yogurt parfait can give you a treat packed with protein and fiber while indulging your sweet tooth. Choose one with granola or fruit.
Protein Bars With Nuts
Protein bars with nuts are great snacks. They give you carbs, healthy fats, and protein. This combination will fill you up and keep you full longer.
Incorporate food planning into your vacation prep so you do not have to stress about it later. Mix things up. Find a new restaurant to try, and get creative with your snacks to keep things interesting. And give yourself some grace if your plans change. After all, this is part of taking a vacation.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Mukilteo, Wash.