The old saying of “half the fun is getting there” may not hold true with the recent airline delays and high gasoline prices. Dr. Jo, author of the book, “How to Stay Healthy & Fit on the Road”, offers these tips to make summer travel more fun and healthy.
1. Save at the Pump. With gas prices sky-high, save money by bringing some of your own foods such as Zoe’s O’s cereals or Bars, nuts and dried fruit, light popcorn (most hotels have microwaves), and instant hot cereals and cocoa. If you’re traveling by car, pack the cooler with bottled water, fruit juices, yogurt, low fat cheeses, and mini carrot sticks.
2. Recharge your Batteries. Feeling sluggish? According to research published in the Journal of Personality & Social Psychology, exercise was found to be the “most effective mood-regulating behavior.” Since the most beautiful scenes are off the beaten track, go for a walk (American Volksport Association at 800-830-WALK will direct you to walks all over the US).
3. Don’t Bring Home Extra Baggage. Don’t get in the habit of rating your vacations in terms of pounds gained. Stay in charge at restaurants. Ask your server for: dressings and toppings on the side, less oil in the stir-fry, egg substitutes in your omelet, or add a steamed veggie and fresh fruit (it’s usually available even if it’s not on the menu).
4. Get Your Dream Quota. Everyone’s grumpy when they’re tired. If you have problems sleeping, avoid caffeine containing drinks and medicines after lunch. Alcohol, while it may produce an initial sleepy effect, actually disrupts your sleep cycle. People who exercise tend to sleep better, but exercise right before bedtime may have a stimulating effect.
5. Pack light. While lifting weights at the gym may be healthy for you, hefting your overstuffed luggage is NOT. Lighten your load by investing in lightweight, roll-on luggage that will allow a second bag to be attached. Consider keeping the color scheme to one or two basic colors (you’ll need fewer shoes, one of the heaviest items) so you can mix and match a few pieces of clothing to make a variety of outfits.
6. Get the best seat on the plane. Book early so you can pick your seat, make sure the seat reclines (the last row and the exit row seats do not), and avoid the busiest flights by traveling mid-week and mid-day. Consider an aisle seat if you want to stretch your legs out into the aisle or a window seat if you plan on snoozing.
7. Don’t Let Jet Lag Jettison Your Plans. Flying across time zones can cause jet lag – a groggy, queasy, irritable feeling. Minimize your symptoms by drinking plenty of water (at least 8oz per hour), setting your clock to your destination as soon as you board the plane (and adjusting your habits accordingly), and getting some sun as soon as possible to help reprogram your body clock.
About the article author: When Dr Jo (Joanne V. Lichten, PhD, RD) isn’t writing or speaking on healthy travels on the road, you’ll find her kayaking the Florida waterways with her husband, 15 year old daughter, and her dog. For more information on Dr. Jo, her books, and additional health and nutrition information, please visit her web site, www.DrJo.com.
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