3 Easy Ways For Truck Drivers To Bring Healthy Food On The Road
About to head out on a routine cross country truck drive? While on the road for such long hours, it often seems nearly impossible to find nutritious and healthy food to eat. Fast food and gas station hallmarked soda, chips and candy seem to be most of what’s available. But what does this mean in the long run for truck drivers’ health as a whole? Statistics from the National Institute of Health show that more than 50 percent of truck drivers are obese compared to the national rate of 26.7 percent. Also, compared to the general population, the prevalence of diabetes is 50 percent higher.
The best way to ensure healthy eating habits is to start your journey prepared and bring your food along with you. It will improve your health and even save you money! A healthful diet includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and starches, good fats, and lean proteins.
Here are some easy ways to fulfill those requirements and bring healthy meals on wheels!
3 Ways to Bring Healthy Meals on the Road:
- Pack food that needs refrigeration in a cooler
Before you hit the road, prepare and pack any food that needs to be kept cool, in a cooler with ice in re-sealable plastic bags. You can also bring the individual food items along and prepare meals as you go. Change out the ice in the cooler whenever needed at most any gas station to keep the food fresh.
Here are some healthy options:
- Sliced Wholegrain Bread
- Hard Boiled Eggs
- Cheese and Yogurt
- Sliced low-fat Meats
- Raw Veggies and Dips
- Fruits
- Use a Thermos for hot foods.
Thermoses can easily be bought online or in most major grocery stores. They can be used either for keeping pre-journey cooked food hot, or even for cooking your own food on the go! There is a variety of healthy, dry packaged foods that only require boiled water and a thermos to cook up a yummy hot meal.
Here are some ideas:
- Instant Oatmeal
- Quinoa flakes (a great source of protein)
- Powdered Soups (without preservatives)
It’s simple, just pick up some hot water at the gas station and you have a hot, healthy, delicious meal in minutes!
- Bring your own condiments.
Preparing your meals on the road doesn’t mean they will be tasteless and boring. It’s easy to give flavor to your meal, whether you want to make it spicy, salty, or sweet. Pack small containers of condiments to add flavor to your meals.
- Chili Powder (for the spice lovers)
- Agave or Stevia (healthy options for the sweet tooth)
- Dry fruits and Nuts (for toppings and protein)
- Organic Jerky (without additives)
- Seasoning Salt
- Mustard
Bringing your own healthy food with you on drives will ensure that you eat tasty and nutritious food and feel better too! You will lose weight, improve your overall health, and have more energy and feel alert while driving!