Helpful hints for Healthy Travel

Getting some vitamin R (rest and relaxation) is a necessary and often overlooked determinant of our health. Unfortunately, travel can be stressful and expose us to a variety of germs, which can affect our wellness. Since health is a lifestyle, not just something to practice at home, here are a few travel-friendly wellness practices.

Pack Some Magnesium
I always make sure to travel with magnesium. Magnesium is a cofactor in more than 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, and blood pressure regulation. Many people experience insomnia and constipation with traveling, both of which can be improved by having magnesium on hand.

Do a Food Search
Healthy food choices can be readily available away from home with some quick planning. Before you leave, check out restaurants and grocery options in the area. Additionally, find out if there is a fridge or kitchen where you are staying. It’s great to be able to make your own meals and have a few healthy snacks on hand, especially if dining options are limited.

Bring Your Own Airplane Food
Did you know it is possible to pack a healthy meal that you can enjoy on the plane? Airport options tend to be either unhealthy or unfriendly to your wallet. A few favorites include: raw carrots, celery or cucumbers, an apple, homemade trail mix, turkey jerky, single packets of Justin’s almond butter, dark chocolate and tea bags (just grab a cup of hot water from Starbucks or Dunkin’ Donuts).

Keep Moving
One of the easiest ways to get exercise is by exploring your destination on foot or by bike.  To maximize your workouts and still fit them in to a busy schedule keep them short but intense.  All you need is 10-20 minutes to complete a sweat-producing, heartrate raising, and fat burning HIIT workout.

Give the Gut Some Love
Because traveling can be hard on the immune system and a large percentage of the immune system is stored in the gut, it’s important to keep the gut happy.  An easy way to do this is to bring probiotics to support your microbiome health. Other options are to grab some kombucha or Kevita sparkling probiotic drinks to help settle the tummy.

Safe travels!

Submitted by Kaley Burns, ND
Graduate of National University of Health Sciences (IL)