One way to ensure you get enough vegetables while traveling on a Paleo diet is to plan ahead and be strategic about your food choices. Here are some tips to help you stay on track:
Choose Paleo-Friendly Restaurants
When eating out, look for restaurants that offer Paleo-friendly options. Many restaurants now cater to different dietary preferences, including Paleo. Look for places that serve fresh, whole foods and offer plenty of vegetable-based dishes.
Opt for Salad Bars or Build-Your-Own Options
Salad bars or build-your-own meal options are great choices for Paleo eaters. You can load up on a variety of fresh vegetables and customize your meal to suit your dietary needs. Look for restaurants or grocery stores that offer these options while traveling.
Pack Portable Snacks
Bringing along portable snacks can help ensure you have access to vegetables even when you’re on the go. Some ideas for Paleo-friendly snacks include:
- Raw vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers
- Sliced fruit like apples or berries
- Nuts and seeds for a crunchy, satisfying snack
- Pre-cut vegetable sticks with guacamole or hummus for dipping
Visit Local Markets or Grocery Stores
Exploring local markets or grocery stores can be a fun way to discover new vegetables and stock up on fresh produce. Look for seasonal vegetables that are locally grown for the best flavor and nutrient content.
Plan Ahead for Air Travel
If you’re traveling by air, it can be challenging to find Paleo-friendly options at the airport or on the plane. To ensure you have access to vegetables while flying, consider the following tips:
- Bring along pre-cut vegetables and fruits in sealable bags or containers
- Pack vegetable-based snacks like kale chips or dehydrated vegetables
- Research airport restaurants ahead of time to find Paleo-friendly options
- Consider bringing a small cooler bag with ice packs to keep perishable items fresh
Focus on Side Dishes
When dining out, focus on ordering vegetable-based side dishes to ensure you get enough vegetables with your meal. Some restaurants offer options like steamed vegetables, sautéed greens, or roasted root vegetables as side dishes that can complement your main course.
Prepare Easy-to-Carry Vegetables
Before you travel, prepare easy-to-carry vegetables that are ready to eat on the go. Some vegetables that are convenient for travel include:
- Cherry tomatoes
- Snap peas
- Mini bell peppers
- Celery sticks