Lectin Free On The Road

A well-stocked kitchen are the keys to managing a lectin free lifestyle.  When we’re at home, we can stock the fridge and pantry with foods we know to be delicious and nutritious. A problem arises, however, when we’re traveling. Whether we take a much needed vacation, or are simply told by our boss to head to a business meeting a couple states away, we are thrust into unfamiliar circumstances. Being lectin free on the road is often a challenge.

Here’s the thing – it’s often easy to think – “Hey, I’ll just eat whatever I can find. A couple of small cheats won’t hurt.” Except, for many of us, cheats DO hurt. They cause aching joints. Migraines. Upset stomachs. Exactly what we want on vacation, or heading into an important meeting, right?! Actually, that sounds terrible.

So let’s figure out a game plan to keep you healthy, happy, and feeling your best, no matter WHERE you are. And face it, airports and drive-thru’s are not the optimal places to make healthy choices.

Are there some healthier options “sandwiched” between the burgers and fries? (Please, please tell me you chuckled – my wife and 5 year old are always accusing me of telling terrible “dad” jokes…)

Here are some tips:

1. Pack snacks. Many times unplanned stops on the road and in the airport occur because someone has the munchies. By packing healthy snacks like macadamia nuts or coconut chips, you can help satisfy cravings and allow you to make it to your next meal. My wife’s favorite snacks are these meat sticks. I could tell you all about how they are gluten free, have no MSG, added nitrites OR artificial preservatives, but that kind of makes me sound like a health nut, so I’ll just say they are FREAKING DELICIOUS. Pro tip: Grab the variety pack so you can sample all the flavors!
2. Don’t eat on the go. It’s never a good idea to eat meals while on the move. Plan ahead and leave time in your schedule to stop for a picnic or at a restaurant. And if your schedule is crazy and you don’t have a ton of time – remember, skipping a meal is perfectly acceptable, and often times even advised!
3. The grocery store is your friend. The trick to being lectin free on the road, is knowing where to fuel up. We already know that swinging through a fast food drive-thru isn’t an ideal choice. So where else can we find food? The local supermarket, of course. Many of them have salad bars, which can be an easy lunch.  Skip the junky dressings and add a dash of oil and vinegar.
4. Drink lots of water. If you keep hydrated, it helps to keep hunger at bay.  This is especially important on long flights, as it’s very easy to become dehydrated while at high altitudes.  If you are driving, make sure to plan those bathroom breaks, especially with little ones!
5. Have a plan for restaurant trips. If you do have to go to a restaurant, knowing what you are going to order helps. Breakfast places are easy, order a veggie omelet (hold the tomatoes). Many breakfast places offer seasonal fruit options as well.  For lunch, a salad bar is a simple choice. At dinner, order local seafood (if near a coast) and grilled vegetables or salad.
6. Take your home cooking with you. If staying in a hotel, choose one with a refrigerator in room and invest in a good hot plate.  This will allow you to prepare your own meals (check out our Thai Green Curry Shrimp recipe) and is also a thrifty alternative to expensive restaurants.

If you follow those simple tips, staying lectin free on the road becomes that much simpler.

What are some tips you use when you are traveling?