Truck driving is no doubt a demanding career. At times, it can be difficult for truck drivers to separate their work life from their personal life. Constantly being on the road and living in your truck makes it difficult to live a healthy lifestyle. It is not uncommon for drivers to get so caught up in delivering loads that they forget about their health. Neglecting to take care of your health can result in serious health issues later on down the road. In some cases, it can prevent drivers from getting their CDL renewed. Taking care of your physical health should be a top priority. Here are some healthy foods to include into your daily diet as a truck driver.
Fruit
Fresh fruits are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Those who incorporate fruit into their daily diet tend to have stronger immune systems and more energy throughout the day. Fruits make a great snack for truck drivers. It is important for truckers to feel energized while driving. A lack of energy can create a dangerous driving situation.
Some fruits to consider:
- Strawberries – Strawberries are high in vitamin C, which is extremely good for the immune system. The human body cannot make vitamin C itself, so people need to incorporate this vitamin into their daily diet.
- Apples – Apples make a quick and easy snack. They are high in fiber, which means they are great for boosting heart health. They also promote weight loss. Studies have shown that those who eat apples regularly have a lower risk of heart disease, diabetes and certain types of cancer.
- Pineapple – Pineapple not only reduces inflammation in the body, it also promotes healthy tissue growth. Eating pineapple decreases the risk of obesity and heart disease. It is also high in potassium, which can help with lowering blood pressure.
- Bananas – Bananas are also high in potassium. They are a good source of energy and help regulate bowel movements.
Lean Meat
Meat is in almost every meal of the day. However, not all meats are healthy. Lean meats are a good source of protein and have fewer calories than non-lean meats. It is important to consider lean meats because they are low in calories and fat.
Examples of lean meats:
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Fish
- Eggs
Vegetables
Eating vegetables provide tons of health benefits. They provide many nutrients like potassium, dietary fiber, folate, vitamin A and vitamin C. Incorporating vegetables into your daily diet reduces the risk of many chronic diseases. Vegetables provide vital nutrients needed to maintain your health. Most vegetables are low in fat and calories.
Some vegetables to consider:
- Broccoli – Broccoli is a great way to get good amounts of fiber. They are also high in vitamin C, which is great for immune boosting. Be careful on how you consume broccoli. Overcooking it can destroy many of its key nutrients. It is best to consume it raw or lightly steamed.
- Spinach – Spinach is a power food. It is on the list of one of the healthiest vegetables. Spinach is easy to incorporate into any meal. It makes a great salad or a substitute for lettuce on a sandwich.
- Carrots – Carrots are packed with vitamin A. They are also high in vitamin C, vitamin K and potassium. Their high antioxidant content has shown to reduce the risk of lung and prostate cancer.
- Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes are root vegetables. While white potatoes and sweet potatoes are both nutritious, sweet potatoes are higher in vitamin A and vitamin C.
