How to Eat/Cleanse on the Road

It’s fairly easy to stick to the guidelines of a cleanse when you’re in the safety of your own home.  Things get complicated if you’re leaving for a mini-vacation and even a day-trip.

If you can find a vegetarian/vegan spot then you’ll have no problem, but other options include Asian and Indian restaurants because they tend to offer a lot of veggie options.

If it’s only a day trip, the best option is to pack your own food.  Here’s a list of what I tend to bring with me if I’m out for the day:

 Raw (unsalted) nuts like almonds or cashews.  I do not recommend pistachios or peanuts since they tend to absorb a lot of toxins in the soil and so do not offer the same nutritional punch as other varieties.

Hard fruit: Apples are a safe bet.  They may get a bit bruised after bouncing around in your bag for a few hours, but will still be edible–unlike a banana.  If you’re careful, tangerines are also a good option.  I tend not to bring veggies with me because I don’t like them at room temperature. If it doesn’t bother you, carrots, celery and radishes are great on-the-road options.

Dried fruit offers contrast in texture and flavour to trail mix, but beware that it is very high in sugar and harmful for your teeth.  The other problem is that it’s harder to gauge how much fruit you are eating when it’s dried–this can leave you feeling bloated and constipated.  Remember to drink extra water if you indulge in dehydrated fruits and veggies.

Granola: Nature Valley bars are a great treat. Since they’re individually packed, they are not messy.  While they are processed, the ingredient list is bearable and they do come in a variety of flavours. The best bet is to make your own granola, but if you don’t have the time and are willing to shell out a bit of cash, then opt for the bar. 

If you can eat bread, try to find one made from whole grains. If you’re off wheat, try a gluten free version, rye or substitute a rice cracker.  Bring some organic peanut butter along and you have yourself a tasty lunch.

Water, water, water:  Pack more than you think you’ll need–even if it’s heavy.  If you’re sitting in a car, bus or plane for any length of time, you will get dehydrated–especially due to air filtering, cooling and heating systems.  It’s great to have extra water on hand in case you have some sort of spill or want a bit of freshening up before you arrive at your destination; a splash of water to the face can make a huge difference.  Another bonus of drinking water is that keeps breath fresh—you never know who you might meet!

If you have any suggestions, please pass them on!

Caffeine Alternatives: Herbal Tea in Toronto

It’s hard to cut out caffeine, but if you’re looking for a quality, tasty alternative, head to Blue Banana in Kensington Market.  Tea 4 You has a stall in this market and they sell a variety of loose-leaf teas in convenient 100 g bags. Prices range anywhere from about $5 to $21 (I tried Madagascar Almond tea, $12/ 100 g).

I’m a big fan of black tea (usually taken with milk), but on Jen’s advice, I also tried the red, caffeine-free Rooibus Cappuccino.  It has a strong, rich flavour and if you’re in the first few days of a caffeine-strike this is definitely the way to go.  You will probably still suffer from some physical withdrawal, but at least you’ll  get some authentic coffee-ish taste without having to resort to decaf, which tastes no better  than dish water.

I’m quite picky about herbal teas; I despise ones that taste like hot juice.  I was really impressed by this brand, though, and highly recommend it to you.

Kicking Cravings

Thank you to all those who offered suggestions both on kicking cravings and cold remedies. 

It feels like all I eat these days is soup, but if I pair it with a great salad (like the one above) it feels like a real meal.  I’m dressing my salads with hearty dressings (olive oil, almond butter and garlic), avocado (thanks Steph) and toasted nuts (thanks Breanna), I feel satisfied (getting some good, heart-healthy fats and salts) not deprived.

I am really missing my black tea with milk, but the ginger tea recipe that Meghan  described in yesterday’s comments is a fantastic substitute and it’s like an instant air freshener…just in case I get any visitors.

I am on the mend and plan on making Jen’s soup tomorrow (also from yesterday’s comments).