For many people, summer is a time for fun in the sun, relaxation, and vacation. As great as it is to travel, it can also be a challenge in terms of sticking to your nutrition goals. Long trips in the car can lead frequent stops at rest areas where the choice of food and snacks can be limiting and often times, really unhealthy. The key is to plan ahead. Before hitting the road, visit your local supermarket and stock up on healthy snacks. Pack them in a portable cooler to help you save time and money when traveling, and to keep you on track with healthy eating. You’ll be glad you did!
Here is a list of items I recommend. They pack well, taste great, and will keep you fuller longer. Strive for lots of fruits and veggies, lean proteins, healthy fats, and high fiber complex carbs. Eat your proteins and carbs at the same time to maintain proper blood sugar balance. This will help you stay energized and focused and avoid needing large amounts of caffeine.
Make sure to pack your cooler with plenty of ice or ice packs to keep your items cold and to avoid spoilage. Also be sure to include plenty of bottled water to help you stay hydrated and avoid high calorie juices, sports drinks, and sodas that are loaded with sugar, colors, and other artificial ingredients.
Fruits and Veggies:
- Baby carrots
- Bell pepper slices
- Broccoli florets
- Cucumber slices
- Apples
- Oranges
- Grapes
- Pears
- Peaches
Protein:
- Hard boiled eggs
- Vermont Beef/Turkey/Pork sticks
- Protein Bars (RX, Lara, Zing, Kind)
- Siggi’s yogurt
- Lifeway Kefir
- Babybel Cheese
Healthy Fats:
- Hummus cups
- Guacamole cups
- Justin’s peanut butter packets
- Almonds
- Walnuts
- Cashews
- Sunflower seeds
Complex Carbs:
- Brown rice cakes
- Pecan Thins
- Almond Thins
Hydration:
- Bottled Water
- LaCroix sparkling water
- Hint Flavored Water