While airline food has come a long way, you should be cautious about what you eat before your flight to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey. In this article, we will dish out some advice on what NOT to eat before a flight.

Salty Foods

Chips, pretzels, and salted nuts are common airport snacks, but they can be a big no-no before your flight. High-sodium foods can lead to dehydration, and the dry air in the plane cabin already does a number on your body’s hydration levels.

So, if you munch on these salty treats, you might find yourself guzzling down those tiny cups of water provided by the flight attendants. You bet! That is no way to stay comfortable at 30,000 feet. Instead, choose snacks with lower salt content to keep your thirst in check.

Frederick / Unsplash / Eating the right food before a flight is extremely important.

Gas-Producing Veggies

Let’s start with the culprits that can turn your flight into a gassy escapade. While nutritious and delicious, Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage are also notorious for producing gas. These veggies contain complex sugars that can ferment in your gut, leading to bloating and unwanted emissions.

Imagine sitting in a cramped airplane seat, trying to hold back an explosive broccoli-induced surprise! Spare yourself the embarrassment and opt for lighter, non-gassy alternatives like cucumbers or carrots before your flight.

Fried Foods

Sure, the aroma of crispy fried chicken or those golden french fries may be tempting at the airport, but indulging in fried foods before your flight is a recipe for discomfort. Fried foods are loaded with unhealthy fats and can wreak havoc on your digestive system.

Engin / Pexels / Fried foods are hard to digest. Avoid them before a flight for good.

The combination of greasy goodness and cabin pressure can leave you feeling sluggish and queasy. Opt for something grilled or baked instead. Your taste buds might miss out, but your stomach will thank you.

Carbonated Beverages

You might think that sipping on a fizzy soda or a bubbly energy drink is a great way to pass the time at the airport, but these carbonated beverages can cause bloating and gas. The last thing you want is to feel like a human soda can at 30,000 feet.

So, stick to still water, herbal tea, or natural fruit juices for good. These will help you stay hydrated without the uncomfortable side effects.

Spicy Foods

Do you live for the thrill of a fiery curry or a tongue-tingling plate of hot wings? Well, save your spicy cravings for when you land because spicy foods can spell trouble in the air. Spices can irritate your stomach lining and increase your risk of acid reflux, making for an uncomfortable journey.

Roman / Pexels / Eating spicy food prior to a flight can enhance acid reflux. In turn, this will make your flight uncomfortable.

Plus, do you really want to be that passenger who sweats profusely and asks for water every five minutes? Stick to milder flavors before you board to avoid inflaming your taste buds and fellow passengers.

Dairy Products

For some people, dairy products like milk and cheese can lead to digestive discomfort, especially if you are lactose intolerant. The last thing you want is to be doubled over in pain while cruising at 35,000 feet.

Ideally, opt for lactose-free alternatives or steer clear of dairy altogether before your flight to ensure a smooth ride.