Maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet while traveling can be challenging. However, with the guidance of a registered dietitian, you can ensure that your health remains a priority even when you’re on the move. In this article, we’ll explore the essential supplements recommended by a registered dietitian to support your well-being and immune system during your travels. These expert-approved travel supplements will help you stay energized and vibrant while exploring new destinations.
Vitamin C for Immune Support
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that plays a vital role in boosting your immune system and protecting your body against infections. When traveling, your immune system may encounter new challenges, making vitamin C an excellent supplement to carry. Whether you’re on a plane, train, or bus, Vitamin C can help fortify your defenses against germs you may encounter during your journey. Consult with a registered dietitian to determine the right dosage for your needs.
Probiotics for Gut Health
Traveling often involves changes in diet and exposure to unfamiliar bacteria. Probiotics can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, promoting digestion and overall gastrointestinal health. A registered dietitian can recommend a high-quality probiotic supplement tailored to your specific travel plans and dietary needs.
Protein and Collagen Powder
“I usually bring a shaker bottle and a few packets of protein powder to mix with water if I need a quick protein option when on the road,” says registered dietician Jessica Cording, R.D. “I also always travel with a few sticks of unflavored collagen to easily add protein to my day if needed. I’ll stir it into coffee, yogurt, or soup.”
Protein is great for helping you stay full, but collagen may help you stay regular while traveling as well.
In one clinical study, 40 healthy women took 20 grams of bovine collagen peptides each day, split into two servings. The results? After eight weeks of collagen supplementation, 93% (13 out of 14 women) of those who completed the study experienced noteworthy improvements in digestion, including bloating and abdominal comfort.*
Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Inflammation
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, offer a multitude of health benefits, including reducing inflammation and supporting heart health. These supplements can be particularly helpful during travel, especially if you’re indulging in different cuisines and dining out more frequently. Omega-3 fatty acids can help counterbalance any potential increase in inflammation from a change in diet.
Multivitamins for Nutrient Gaps
A well-rounded multivitamin can act as a safety net, ensuring that you’re meeting your daily nutrient requirements while traveling. While it’s important to focus on obtaining nutrients from whole foods, a multivitamin can help fill in the gaps, especially when you’re unable to access a variety of fresh produce. Your registered dietitian can recommend a reputable multivitamin that aligns with your dietary preferences and travel plans.
Vitamin D for Mood and Bone Health
Vitamin D is often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin” because our bodies produce it when exposed to sunlight. However, during travel, you might not have consistent access to sunlight. Vitamin D is crucial for mood regulation and bone health, making it an important supplement to consider for your travel kit. Consult with a registered dietitian to determine if you should include Vitamin D in your travel supplement regimen.
Conclusion
Traveling should never mean compromising your health and well-being. With the guidance of a registered dietitian, you can make informed decisions about which supplements to include in your travel kit. Vitamin C, probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, multivitamins, and Vitamin D are all valuable options to support your immune system, gut health, inflammation control, nutrient intake, and mood regulation while on the go. Remember, personalized advice from a registered dietitian ensures that your supplement choices align with your individual needs and travel plans, allowing you to embark on your adventures with vitality and confidence.
