A healthier airport dining experience is within reach - even on a plane.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has called for airlines to shake up their snack game, citing the need for "better" options that are healthier than the usual pretzels and cookies. His comments have sparked a debate about how people can eat well while flying.
Airline snacks often fall short when it comes to nutrition. Pretzels are high in sodium and refined carbs, leaving you craving more. Biscoff cookies, on the other hand, contain added sugars and saturated fat - but they do come with some advantages over Oreos and Chips Ahoy! When it comes to choosing a snack on a plane, Duffy recommends opting for nuts like almonds or cashews instead of peanuts, which are often off-limits due to allergies.
Another crucial consideration is staying hydrated. The low humidity in airline cabins can quickly lead to dehydration, so it's essential to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. Aim for 8 ounces of water per hour of flight, and avoid alcoholic and caffeinated drinks that can disrupt sleep and exacerbate jet lag.
For those who want to skip the airlines' snacks altogether, bringing your own food is the way to go. Registered dietitians like Andy De Santis swear by packing high-protein foods like chicken sandwiches or Greek yogurt, while health editor Ally Head recommends a container full of carrot sticks, celery, and cheese cubes for a satisfying snack.
Before you pack, know the rules: solid snacks, dried fruit, and sandwiches are generally allowed in carry-on luggage. Just leave out the ice packs, aluminum foil-wrapped food, and liquids over 3.4 ounces. Bring an empty water bottle to fill up before takeoff and enjoy while waiting at the gate.
By making a few simple changes, you can enjoy healthier snacks on your next flight - even when you're at 30,000 feet.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has called for airlines to shake up their snack game, citing the need for "better" options that are healthier than the usual pretzels and cookies. His comments have sparked a debate about how people can eat well while flying.
Airline snacks often fall short when it comes to nutrition. Pretzels are high in sodium and refined carbs, leaving you craving more. Biscoff cookies, on the other hand, contain added sugars and saturated fat - but they do come with some advantages over Oreos and Chips Ahoy! When it comes to choosing a snack on a plane, Duffy recommends opting for nuts like almonds or cashews instead of peanuts, which are often off-limits due to allergies.
Another crucial consideration is staying hydrated. The low humidity in airline cabins can quickly lead to dehydration, so it's essential to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight. Aim for 8 ounces of water per hour of flight, and avoid alcoholic and caffeinated drinks that can disrupt sleep and exacerbate jet lag.
For those who want to skip the airlines' snacks altogether, bringing your own food is the way to go. Registered dietitians like Andy De Santis swear by packing high-protein foods like chicken sandwiches or Greek yogurt, while health editor Ally Head recommends a container full of carrot sticks, celery, and cheese cubes for a satisfying snack.
Before you pack, know the rules: solid snacks, dried fruit, and sandwiches are generally allowed in carry-on luggage. Just leave out the ice packs, aluminum foil-wrapped food, and liquids over 3.4 ounces. Bring an empty water bottle to fill up before takeoff and enjoy while waiting at the gate.
By making a few simple changes, you can enjoy healthier snacks on your next flight - even when you're at 30,000 feet.