One of my buddies just came back from a vacation where she had to take a 15 hour flight, and was complaining that the airplane ride really messed with her tummy. I can totally relate, as I know that airplane food, the pressure, and the lack of water and sleep tends to make a mess of your digestive system and make for a not so great vacation or homecoming once you land.
So what's a girl to do? There's actually some great tips and tricks you can use to make your next trip easy on your sensitive belly.
Firstly, bring your own snacks and reduce consumption of caffeine and carbonated beverages that can dehydrate you, as well as caffeine and alcohol (I know, I know, it's tempting to drink those glasses of wine to relax). Instead, opt for tea or other warm drinks to promote better digestion.
Just say no to cold foods or a raw salad and stick to warm foods.
Try to ingest lots of ground flaxseed and a probiotic like kefir on the days before your flight, to promote for a better environment inside your stomach.
Drink lots and lots of water! Often the stewardesses are stingy with water, but it's your right to ask for as much water as you want. Also, make sure you purchase a big bottle of water right before your flight, at the stores by your gate (otherwise they wont allow you to bring it inside the airport).
When that food cart comes through, avoid snacks like those salty peanuts and pretzels. These will wreck your tummy. Instead, reach in your purse and grab that Lara Bars/raw bar, apples, oranges or grapes, and unsalted nuts that you bought at the gate.
Also, many airlines have a big list of alternative foods that you can order when you purchase your ticket, such as vegan, vegetarian, non dairy and gluten-free. Make sure to use these to your advantage.
Follow these simple steps, and you'll be sure to have a healthier voyage through the skies next time you go out of town.
