A recent Columbia University research study found that people who travel extensively for business are at higher risk for health problems, including obesity and high cholesterol.
According to the study, extensive travelers were 260 percent more likely than light travelers to rate their health as either fair or poor. Extensive travelers were also more likely to be obese, with high blood pressure and high levels of cholesterol.
Several characteristics of business travel – lack of sleep, meals eaten on the run and long flights or meetings with little activity – may contribute to health risks in frequent travelers.
Being on the road can also be lonely, and it’s tempting to turn to high-calorie treats, comfort foods or an extra martini to feel better. Overindulging at dinner can lead to a restless night, and visiting the hotel gym may seem like too much effort if you haven’t had a good night’s sleep.
However, business travel does not have to mean a decline in health. The key is to have the discipline to make healthy food choices and to exercise when possible.
The discipline begins at home – when packing your bag, include a pair of athletic shoes and comfortable clothing for exercise. At the airport, buy a piece of fruit as a snack to take on the plane with you.
Eat regularly to keep your energy up while on the road, but choose wisely. Ask for salad with dressing on the side; lean meats and fish prepared with a minimum of fat and with gravies and sauces on the side; and steamed vegetables sprinkled with herbs instead of salt. Choose water or juice rather than alcoholic drinks that are laden with calories.
If healthy choices are limited, the best thing to do is to watch your portion size. Many restaurants’ entrees could easily serve two. Don’t feel that you have to eat everything on your plate.
Many hotels that cater to business travelers have well-equipped workout rooms and pool areas, and a post-dinner workout or swim can help you relax and prepare to sleep well. Or, ask the front desk staff for a good walking route, then walk a brisk mile or two after dinner.
Eating and sleeping well on the road will not only help to keep you healthy – you’ll also be more alert and focused during meetings, which will yield better business results.
Click here to read about the Top 5 International Travel Destinations in 2011
Click here to read about the Top 5 U.S. Travel Destinations in 2011
This travel column was written by BlueRibbonNews.com special contributor Robbert van Bloemendaal, an experienced world traveler, native of Australia, an Ambassador with the Rowlett Chamber of Commerce, and president of Travel Leaders of Rowlett.
To submit your news and events or a guest column on your area of expertise, email editor@BlueRibbonNews.com.
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