There’s one challenge I face in my life over and over again: trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle while traveling constantly.
I live with the philosophy that my body functions better with a mostly plant-based diet, and I definitely feel my best when I eat at least one to two raw meals a day. Getting through an airport with this mission in mind can be tough, but I’ve learned to enjoy the challenge rather than resent it.
To make it easier on myself, I cook the night before I fly and I keep everything I make in little compartmentalized lunch boxes. I have a lot of fun with it! (The ongoing joke in my family is that everyone knows what to get me for any holiday or birthday—a lunchbox, since I go through them like crazy.) If I’m really in a pinch, I can always reach for bananas, salads or raw nuts while breezing through the airport. Healthy choices are out there, so eating nutritiously doesn’t have to feel like a high-maintenance thing.
I do think that my definition of “unhealthy” varies. For example, bread is scary to some people, but I’m open-minded about eating certain kinds. As long as I can read all the ingredients on the label, l’m good! The main thing I try to avoid is high fructose corn syrup or other preservatives that are hidden in almost every food on the market. Other than that, I say, if you feel like having a piece of bread with butter, go for it! At least you know what you’re eating.
That being said, there are some health food staples that I am completely obsessed with. Superfoods like chia seeds and maca might sound a little strange, but they make me feel fantastic. Better yet, I can order all of my favorite snacks online at Thrive Market—and for 30-50% off what I’d pay at a health food store. Convenience is everything when I’m traveling, and they’ve got everything I’m looking for.
Organic Fair Trade Virgin Coconut Oil
Virgin coconut oil trumps butter and oil when it comes to cooking, baking, or even just as a spread on whole-grain toast.
Kale Chips
These “chips” are gluten-free and vegan, but you wouldn’t know it by how crunchy and tasty they are. Love kale!
Shelled Hemp Seeds
Hemp seeds are a great source of protein and omega-3s when I’m on the go.
Sprouted Pumpkin Seeds
These organic pumpkin seeds are another raw food staple for me.
Raw Zucchini Sticks
Don’t let the word “raw” fool you. These are as good as fries, but even more flavorful.
Black Chia Seeds
These are gluten-free, with antioxidants and fiber—essentials for a healthy diet.
Maca Almond Butter
Wow. This almond butter is amazing. The cinnamon gives it a kick and the maca is so energizing.
Goji Berries
I eat these by the handful. Lots of antioxidants!
Go Raw Chocolate
This raw chocolate is a treat. With only two ingredients, I don’t have to worry about what I’m eating.
Coconut Chips
They put the lime in the coconut (sorry, I had to!). There’s a reason that’s a song—the two flavors are perfect for each other.
Photo credit: Nikki Reed
