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"Airport Dining Sucks!"

By Shondelle Solomon-Miles

Airport Dining Sucks! I don't know about you, but I am completely fed up with the fact that finding a healthy meal at the airport is as challenging as getting through the security line with a smile on your face. I cannot possibly be the only one who desires a healthier option than a fast food burger or a Cinnabon while "dining" at the airport, right? I didn't think so. Here are a few tips to assist you with dining at the airport without gaining 17 pounds in the process.

1.WHENEVER POSSIBLE, DON'T ARRIVE HUNGRY:
The easiest way to avoid at the airport eating is to not arrive hungry. I would admit that sometimes that's easier said than done, especially during those early morning flights, quick turnarounds or extended layovers. However, there are times when a little planning and preparation will allow you to squeeze in a meal before heading off to the airport.

2. IF YOU HAVE A SHORT TRIP CHOOSE A LIGHT SNACK OVER A HEAVY MEAL
If you going to be traveling for a short while (less than 2 hours), sometimes it's worth sparing the burger and fries, or pepperoni pizza and choosing a lighter snack just to hold you over until you reach your destination. Perhaps a bag of trail mix, a small salad, or a couple pieces of fruit will tie you over until you have the opportunity to eat a healthier meal.

3. ON LONGER FLIGHTS WITH A MEAL, PRESELECT THE LOW FAT/"DIETERS" OPTION
Nowadays it seems like you've got to be flying around the world to get a full meal during a flight. However, during those rare occasions when you are served a meal, you usually have the option of pre-selecting your meal "type" when making your registration. Almost always there is a "low fat" or "dieter"s option.

4.MAKE THE BEST CHOICE AVAILABLE
Occasionally airport dining is inevitable. In these instances, do the best with what you have. You may only be able to find a turkey sandwich on white bread, but that still is a better option than a Cinnabon or a personal pan pizza-especially as far as calories go.

5.STAY BUSY
Emotional eating is defined as eating to satisfy feelings rather than physical hunger. Boredom is one of the most prevalent "emotional" eating triggers. If your flight is delayed or you have a long lay over, find something to do that will occupy your time. Call a friend you haven't spoken to in awhile, catch up on email, read a book-write a book. Anything is better than killing time with a BBQ beef sandwich and an order of curly fries.

6.MINIMIZE TIME IN THE MAGAZINE STAND
During my most recent airport experience I visited a magazine "stand" in an effort to buy my son a souvenir. As I waited in the line, I couldn't help but to focus my attention on all of the candy bars and fruit treats encircling the cash register. Do you think those goodies are there by accident? Of course not. Store owners know that people's purchases are driven by emotion and wants rather than logic and needs. Those high calorie goodies? are conveniently place at the register to facilitate your impulsive purchase. Don't give in!

About the Author:

Shondelle Solomon-Miles is the owner of Synergize Training Studios in Hollywood, FL. She is also the author of The Ultimate Fat Loss Guide. Her website is www.Synergizeweightloss.com