As the holiday season approaches, millions of Britons are gearing up for their much-anticipated getaways.
Top health experts have now revealed a simple yet effective travel hack involving a common fruit to enhance your flight experience. Dr Rosie Godeseth, Vitality’s associate medical director, recommends indulging in bananas while flying due to their rich magnesium and potassium content.
Dr Godeseth also highlighted how the stress of air travel could affect your hunger. In an interview with The Telegraph, she explained: “For some people, the fight or flight response can kick in, disrupting hunger regulating hormones like leptin.
“Taste can also be affected as the cabin environment dulls our senses, with factors such as cabin lighting, stress, and even in-flight entertainment changing how things taste to us.”
For those prepping for a lengthy journey through the skies, dieticians advise opting for lighter, simpler meals. Celebrity dietician Nmami Agarwal suggests steering clear of sugar and limiting protein intake.
Agarwal emphasizes that carbohydrates, which provide a slower release of energy, are the optimal choice before taking to the skies. Yet, it’s fruit that she champions as the ultimate in-flight snack, reports the Mirror.
In a conversation with Variety, Agarwal advised: “A banana is your best bet before boarding a flight. The fruit is loaded with potassium, which can regulate blood pressure and help ease any muscle cramps you face during a flight.
“Consider oranges too, since they are rich in Vitamin C, which helps to boost immunity.”
Agarwal suggests that a smoothie, packed with green fruits like green apple or kiwi and almond milk, can keep travellers hydrated during their flight. She also advises those flying in the evening to consider having a small meal earlier in the day before they travel.
Bananas, being rich in potassium, are touted as the perfect pre-flight snack due to their ability to regulate blood pressure and minimise muscle cramps. Alongside fruit consumption, passengers are reminded to stay well-hydrated during flights to help lessen the severity of jet lag.