Travel nursing schedules can be demanding. You may be in the same place for days, weeks or months, depending upon your current and upcoming travel assignments. But living a life of travel and adventure doesn’t mean you need to give up on living a healthy lifestyle and eating nutritiously. Read on for some great tips and ideas for prepping, preparing, and enjoying some delicious snacks.
Hard-boiled eggs
For non-vegans, there are few snacks that offer more bang for your buck than the simple, hard cooked egg. Loaded with protein, eggs are also rich in selenium, vitamin D, B vitamins and minerals such as zinc, iron and copper. Egg yolks do contain more calories and fat than the whites, but that means that they are a source of fat-soluble vitamins including A, D, E and K and lecithin.
Vegan or allergic to eggs? There’s a solution for you! Just Egg is a “vegan, plant-based alternative to eggs made with turmeric and mung bean protein to create an egg-like texture and flavor”.
For easy to peel, no-fail hard cooked eggs, head here for a super-simple recipe.
Nuts
Tree nuts, including walnuts, almonds, and pecans, make for excellent, nutritious snacking. Here are just a few of the benefits of grabbing a handful during your break or when you’re feeling tired during a long travel nursing shift:
- Nuts have been linked to reduced risk of heart disease, depression, and even cancer.
- Even though they are high in fat, nuts are quite filling and research even suggests that they can help you lose weight.
- Nuts provide an excellent balance of healthy fats, fiber, and protein.
- Nuts don’t need to be refrigerated, so they’re perfect for stashing in your purse or workbag.
Now that you know the benefits, let’s talk about taste. Whether you love them sweet, salty, spicy, or all three, simple recipes abound to satisfy your craving. Or simply pick up your favorite pre-seasoned blend the next time you’re grocery shopping. Even plain, nuts pack a flavorful punch.
Not a fan of nuts or allergic to them? Soy nuts, seeds, and even chickpeas can provide a crunchy, nutritious alternative.
Greek yogurt
Paired with a spoonful of honey, a healthy sprinkling of berries, or some yummy homemade granola, Greek yogurt is another snack that not only packs a nutritional punch, but keeps you full. Rich in protein, Greek yogurt is one food that will keep you going through whatever your day as a travel nurse, travel CNA or travel LPN has in store for you. Here are some other key benefits of eating Greek yogurt regularly.
- It’s chock full of probiotics, which are healthy bacteria found in your digestive tract. Probiotics help boost your immune system and decrease gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea and pain.
- It’s rich in calcium, which helps you build strong bones, especially as you age. In addition, calcium is vital for building strong muscles and helping your vital organs function.
For more delicious options and recipes to incorporate Greek yogurt into your diet, head here.
Fruits and veggies
It doesn’t get much simpler than packing a piece of fruit or a container of pre-chopped veggies. Here are some tips to get into the habit of eating more from these essential food groups.
- If you’re not in the habit of eating from these food groups regularly, it may help to prep them for the week beforehand. Wash the produce and chop it up and/or store it in easy to grab containers.
- Go for veggies first at mealtime, rather than protein. It can be tough to eat veggies when you’re really hungry and hankering for the sandwich or main course you packed, but you can curb this habit by eating regular snacks earlier in the day, before lunch. By doing this, you’ll be more likely to dive into the veggies before moving on to the main course.
- Try vegetable juice. It’s not the same as eating raw or steamed veggies, but it’s certainly better than nothing. Just be sure you’re going with juices that don’t have high sugar or sodium content, which can negate any health benefits you’ll get from your juice.
Looking for more flavor? These fruit and veggie dip recipes will give even the most adventurous palates a run for their money.
Hummus
Hummus is a dip or spread traditionally made by combining cooked, mashed chickpeas with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. Of course, now that hummus has become mainstream, flavor options are only limited by your imagination. You can whip up a batch at home in no time or pick up your favorite kind at the grocery store.
Not only is hummus a versatile and nutritious food, but it makes a great, portable snack. Pair it with pita bread, pretzels, fruits, or veggies and you’ve got a nutritious, easy little meal.
Travel nursing keeps you busy, and it’s what you love, but it doesn’t have to mean that your health goes by the wayside. Try some of the easy tips above and your body and mind will thank you!
