If you ask most carriers, are they healthy? We’re going to make the assumption and say 9 out of 10 will say “no, not really.” Although it’s difficult to maintain a healthy diet, especially on long haul drives as a carrier, you can still improve your diet. Most people, in general, who work long hours, tend to feel unhealthy for the following two reasons:

1. They don’t have time, because they work 60+ hours

2. They plan to make healthy dietary choices, but they are too tired to see it through and a quick snack is much easier when you’re on the road.

So, we decided that we will help our carriers by giving you five simple dietary tips who spend long hours on the road.

1. Avoid liquid calories

Drinks, especially soda are high in calories. If you’ve wondered why you are still piling on the pounds, but you’re dieting. You might want to take a look at the gaterade or beaver buzz (depending on your choice in energy drinks). These are known as liquid calories. Some drinks, can contain the same amount of calories as a meal. So, when you can try to cut out the following:

• Full “fat” or full sugar soda
• Juice – perhaps have one glass in the morning, if you prefer freshly squeezed juice.
• No sugar/cream in your coffee

Also, liquid calories, come in the form of sauces and condiniments, such as sweet and sour sauce, ketchup and mayonannaise.

Now, we understand that you may need an energy kick on a long drive, try to look for sugar-free alternative.

2. Drink water

Now, you may try to limit how much you drink on a long haul drive. This avoidance could be due to time constraints. However, the best thing for your body and health to reduce tiredness, fatigue and general lathargy, try and drink a lot of water.

3. Plenty of protein

Protein has various important functions, and it’s key to having a healthy diet. If you eat junk food whilst driving, try to look for protein-based snack instead. You will also notice, if you have at least 30g of protein every day, you will get less hungry on your drives. Protein will also give you a lot more energy, which will help you stay alert when driving long hours.

4. Reduce carbs

Carbs, as much as they’re tasty actually work against us. When our body breaks carbs down, it raises blood sugar levels and reduces energy. So, the last thing you want when your on a long haul drive is to speed up the inevitable tiredness. Now, we’re not saying you can’t snack, just swap your high-carb treats for a healthier alternative. Or, use tip 3 and you won’t have the need for carbs!

5. Pre-plan and pack snacks

Now, being a carrier has a busy schedule. But, if you pre-plan meals and pack for your journey you can implement all of the steps above, as well as saving money. You don’t have to do this on every journey. It’s more for the long drives ahead, having healthy, energy rich meals to hand can help you stay alert and safe on the long journey.