Road Trips the healthy way!

Lately with the long weekends and breaks from school, there's been a lot of traveling between school and home and then back again and the calories can really pile up! So what can make a road trip a little more healthier? It's easy!

Photo by Federico Stevanin

If you're in a car longer than three hours it's likely you're going to get pretty hungry. So try being prepared beforehand and pack a snack! Anything from fruits to veggies will be a great little snack that's both healthy and can give you energy for the long trip. Some greasy and fatty foods can just make you feel full and tired, which could be a distraction while you drive.

If you don't have time prior to your trip to pack something and need a bite to eat, don't feel bad about grabbing something while you're gasing up the car. Try getting a snack that's healthier than potato chips or jerky and reach for some trail mix or a power bar. These won't pile on the calories and they'll help curb your hunger. I always like to go for some Smartpop; it's great tasting and about 2 cups of it is only worth 130 calories! Remember to not try to buy the "Value Size" but the smaller portion. Sometimes when you;re driving it can get kind of boring, therefore you'll keep snacking just because there's extra food. So remember, smaller portions and something healthier.

Finally, if you stop by a fast-food joint or any other restaurant there's still healthier options there! Don't go for the typical hamburger but better yet try a grilled chicken sandwich! It's a great source of protein and by getting it grilled we're receiving less fat than the fried version. Also try substituting the traditional side dish of french fries for a salad with a low-fat dressing like at Wendy's or apples like at McDonalds. You'll be sure to intake less calories and make the road trip healthier!

So with winter break just a few weeks away, remember these tips to make your road trip home a bit healthier!