What Not to Eat Before Flying

When you’re starving and stuck in an airport, you may end up eating something you otherwise would have avoided. Much airport fare, though, can lead to bloating and other discomforts when you actually board your flight.

Some foods to avoid before lying are more obvious than others. For example, a salty, greasy snack like French fries is a no-no, as fried foods can lead to bloating at high altitudes.

While it is healthy, an apple doesn’t make the best pre-flight snack. Apples are high in fiber, meaning they are not easy to digest and can lead to gas and bloating on a flight.

Swap out carbonated drinks for water or an herbal tea to help keep your body happy on a plane. Sodas and other carbonated drinks can cause gas and heartburn while flying.

As much as I love a good round of airplane wine, it isn’t the smartest pre-flight or in-flight beverage choice. Alcohol has a dehydrating effect on the body, and drinking at high altitudes, surrounded by the dry air on a plane, can lead to headaches, nausea and discomfort.

Like French fries, chowing down on a cheeseburger can lead to discomfort down the road for those boarding a plane. High-fat and high-sodium foods are hard to process during a flight, and can leave you with an upset stomach.