10 Foods you should avoid when flying
It is common to eat a snack or a meal before departing for the airport or to eat at the airport while waiting for your flight. With more and more delicious eateries opening up in and around airports, the temptation to snack before a flight is even greater. Whether you're travelling for business or pleasure, you always want to have a comfortable flight and feel energetic when you land. Since altitude affects your digestion and hydration levels, it can leave you feeling sluggish, bloated, or run down after your flight. Therefore, it's important to consider which foods to avoid when flying.
Below are 10 foods to avoid before flying
1. High salt snacks
People generally prefer to snack on chips and other salty snacks on long trips because they are easy to carry and munch on. Despite their convenience for a quick and light snack, the high intake of sodium and saturated fats can be difficult to digest at high altitudes and may cause fluid retention, leaving you dehydrated and bloated.
2. Fried foods
Fried foods, such as French fries and fried chicken appetizers, are always difficult to say no to. However, it is best to avoid these types of foods as they are some of the most difficult foods to digest, especially at high altitudes. Additionally, as they are also loaded with fats and oils, they can induce heartburn and cause fluid retention due to their heavy salt content.
3. Heavy and spicy food
Although heavy and spicy foods seem to be filling and tasty between layovers, they are notorious for causing stomach discomfort and heartburn. For a comfortable flight, it is best to consume bland foods before boarding.
4. Apples
Even though apples are regarded to be a healthy fruit choice, it is not a good idea to consume them before a flight. The high fibre content in the apple makes them difficult to digest, which results in long hours of discomfort, gas, and bloating, ultimately making your flight uncomfortable.
5. Red Meat
With most of the popular burger joins at the airport, it is quite tempting to have a burger before your flight to keep you full on your journey. However, digesting red meat is difficult for most people, especially at an altitude, and you would experience heaviness in the stomach and discomfort throughout the flight.
6. Coffee
Many people consider having a cup of coffee before a long flight to stay energized, but it's essential to remember the potential adverse consequences of caffeine at high altitudes. Aeroplanes are already dehydrating the body, and consuming caffeine can worsen this effect, leading to headaches, nausea, and jitters. Therefore, it is better to avoid caffeine before a flight and choose other drinks that will keep you hydrated and comfortable during your journey.
7. Cruciferous vegetables and broccoli
While a salad and raw vegetables may appear to be a healthy choice, it's important to note that certain raw vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, can cause flatulence and bloating at high altitudes. Consuming these foods before a flight can potentially make the journey uncomfortable and unpleasant.
8. Legumes and Beans
While beans and legumes are high in fibre and nutritious, they are notorious for causing gas. In the pressurized environment of an aeroplane cabin, this discomfort can worsen as the gas expands at high altitudes. To avoid any adverse effects on your digestive system, it's best to avoid these foods altogether before taking your flight.
9. Carbonated Drinks
Carbonated beverages such as soda can lead to gas and heartburn. In addition, the low air pressure and humidity on an aircraft can exacerbate feelings of exhaustion and dehydration. Therefore, it's best to avoid carbonated drinks before and during the flight and opt for water instead when the drinks cart comes down the aisle.
10. Chewing Gum
While chewing gum can relieve ear pressure and ear popping during takeoff and landing, it can also lead to the ingestion of excess air, resulting in bloating and gas formation. Additionally, sugar and artificial sweeteners found in sugar-free gum can contribute to flatulence. If you prefer to chew gum for fresh breath, it may be better to choose a mint-based option instead.
To ensure a comfortable flight, it is recommended to avoid the aforementioned foods and beverages before boarding. Instead, opt for small, easy-to-digest meals such as bananas, oranges, dry fruits, lean protein, or Greek yoghurt. It is also recommended to drink herbal tea, sugar-free lemonade, or water before your flight. This can help keep you hydrated and prevent discomfort during your journey.
We at flydubai wish you a pleasant journey.
