Traversing Food Choices During Travel
Let's talk about the stress of eating during travel season. While traveling should be something we look forward to, sometimes anxiety around food can hinder enjoyment of the trip. If you get nervous (or even cancel travel plans) because you are worried about what you are going to eat, here are a few tips that may help:
There will ALWAYS be something for you to eat wherever you go as most travel destinations have local grocery stores. If you are struggling with food rules its okay to talk to a friend, family member or your dietitian to help devise a plan to help you with negative or ruminative thought patterns. Using your voice and asking for help is an essential piece of recovery.
Try to refrain from restricting before or after travel if you know you are going to explore and try the local cuisine. Just because a food may be different from what you are used to, doesn't mean it is unhealthy or a reason to restrict. “Saving calories” or “making up for calories” just makes you more hungry after the restriction.
Bring along snacks or foods to nourish your body during travel. Even though you're often out of your normal routine, your body still gets hungry between meals. Packed snacks can fill the gap and give you energy for the fun you've invested in!
Traveling is supposed to be relaxing. Aren't making memories one of the reasons you're traveling to begin with? Focus on these if you can. This is purposeful living and at the end of the day…what really counts. ◡̈
Feeling overwhelmed with the thought of breaking out of routine? Contact us! We can help you develop a plan.
Written by Trinny Duncan, Nutrition Intern and Peggy Pratt, PhD, RD, LD, CEDRD-S