A long and healthy career is directly connected to a healthy way of life. To be successful as a truck driver, you must juggle day-to-day operations while also maintaining a mentally and physically healthy lifestyle. We understand that this task is very challenging, and we want to offer a few tips to help you eat and be healthier.

We understand that many truck-stop locations don’t have the best choices when it comes to a healthy food selection, but here are some suggestions that might help you make better choices.

Meal Choices

Pre-planning a meal can help you eat healthier and save you money in the long run. Finding places to purchase your food in bulk can also help you cut down on the cost. Places like Walmart and Sam’s Club are great places to start, and it’s best to use them for their discounts.

When purchasing your meal somewhere, try to stay away from processed meats and foods high in sodium or sugar. Some of the things we recommend are:

  • Lean meats (especially chicken fillets)
  • Foods high in fiber (like lentils, kidney beans, chickpeas, oats, and even dark chocolate!)
  • Fish (source of Omega 3’s)
  • Nuts and seeds (chia seeds, almonds, or popcorn)
  • Fresh fruit
  • Fresh vegetables

These foods give your body most of the nutrients it needs without all the unhealthy fats that are used with processed foods and without the unnecessary refined sugar.

Try to plan the amount of time on the road and prepare your meals beforehand. Purchase food storage containers so you can prepare meals at home before getting on the road.

Even if you are unable to preplan your meals and you have no choice but to eat on the go, keep in mind that some truck stops do have healthy food selections. Pilot, Flying J, and Loves offer fresh salads and fresh fruits. Avoid fried foods and fast-food restaurants because most have a very limited selection of healthy options.

Water is Life!

We cannot stress enough how important it is to stay hydrated. You should drink at least 1 gallon of water per day to help flush your body of toxins and keep you hydrated. Try to stay away from high-sugar drinks such as soda and energy drinks. If caffeine is needed, we would recommend drinking yerba mate or green tea instead of energy drinks and not exceeding more than two cups of coffee per day.

In short, try starting the day with a breakfast with fruits and fiber. Nuts and seeds can be used in small amounts as snacks throughout the day. Spread your meals throughout the day, and try to eat many smaller meals more often. It is recommended that you eat five times per day, with meals that include breakfast, a snack, lunch, another snack, and dinner, and avoid eating high-calorie meals often. Eating smaller meals throughout the day will give your body a metabolic boost while also keeping your body fueled and ready to be productive.

Eating healthy and drinking plenty of water will help you live a healthier life and stay energized, hydrated, and focused to tackle the everyday duties needed to be done as a truck driver. It will also help you enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Thank you for being a part of the Super Ego Team. We wish you both success and Super Health!