Dos and Don’ts of the Airplane Eating

Are you about to take long empty leg flights? If so, you may be wondering what foods to eat in order to make the journey as comfortable as possible. Believe it or not, there are some foods that are better for you than others when flying.

When it comes to snacks, one of the best options is nuts. Nuts are high in protein and healthy fats, which can help provide sustained energy without making you feel too full. They are also relatively compact and easy to store in a carry-on bag or purse if you don’t have access to an outlet mid-flight. Other great snack choices include granola bars, trail mix, dried fruit and even dark chocolate (in moderation).

If you’re looking for a larger meal option before your flight, lean proteins such as grilled chicken or fish and light salads are both good options. These types of meals will fill you up without making you feel overly full or bloated due to the high fiber content. Avoid overly fatty meals such as burgers or burritos, as they can lead to indigestion and discomfort during the flight.

On the flip side, there are certain foods you should avoid when flying. Greasy and fried items like french fries will only make you feel more bloated in a confined space. High-sodium foods like chips or cured meats can cause dehydration, which is especially important to consider on a long flight where you may not have access to free beverages. Sugary snacks such as candy bars should also be avoided since their energy boost is short-lived and often followed by a crash of fatigue.

When it comes to eating before a long flight, it’s important to choose foods that provide sustained energy and won’t make you feel overly full or uncomfortable.