Before take off
Boost your body with healthy, filling foods before you take off – nut butters, avocado, kale, spinach, you know the stuff. That way you can say no to the inflight meal and enjoy the benefits of intermittent fasting, which will also help stave off jet lag according to scientists. Make your own rules.
Eating sweets, ‘gassy’ fruit and anything high fibre or with too much dairy sets your tummy up for a fall. It’s just too much for it to deal with, digestion wise, while already dealing with the pressures of flying. Avoid them to keep your tummy settled, ensuring you – and probably passengers around you – have a more comfortable flight.
In flight
Drink water, drink water and drink water. Avoid caffeine, alcohol and salted snacks. If you’ve decided to not eat inflight and give your body a break from digesting, that’s great. But if fasting doesn’t appeal, pack healthy snacks that will help you reduce the effects of jet lag.
Prep a little pack of quinoa- or oat-based energy bars with chocolate drops, coconut shards or a little dried fruit (don’t go overboard … think of the other passengers!). The bars will give you a little boost when you slump.
A banana is also a solid choice, especially towards the end of your flight, because its magnesium and potassium will balance out your body salts and relax you for a restorative night’s sleep (or at least a kip before you head to the office)
Fun fact: Eating at altitude plays havoc with our tastebuds. A lot of science has gone into creating in-flight meals we can eat. The taste of tomatoes intensifies up there, so airlines often serve up tomatoey dishes.
