Nowadays, on-the-road nutrition for people working as drivers is a key issue, especially given the increasing number of people working in this profession. The right nutritional habits can significantly improve drivers’ wellbeing, increasing their productivity and their ability to make safe decisions on the road.
Why is proper nutrition on the road important?
Long hours behind the wheel promote fatigue, which directly affects the ability to concentrate and the speed of decision-making. Choosing readily available, processed foods, rich in sugars and fats, often leads to feelings of drowsiness and a sharp drop in energy.
In turn, a diet based on wholesome foods such as protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals helps to keep energy levels and alertness constant. What we consume directly affects our wellbeing and, in the case of drivers, also our safety on the road.
The nutritional challenges of driving
One of the biggest challenges faced by professional drivers is limited access to healthy meals during long journeys. On the road, there is often a lack of places offering wholesome and balanced food, with most of the options available being fast food, snacks from petrol stations or processed foods. This type of food, although quick and readily available, does not provide adequate nutritional value, which can have a negative impact on the driver’s wellbeing.
To avoid this, drivers should try to choose healthier options. Salads, sandwiches with whole-grain bread, fresh fruit or natural yoghurts are becoming more common at stations. Awareness and planning are key to avoiding unhealthy options. It’s a good idea to prepare food before your journey or take healthy snacks that can be easily consumed on the go.
Drowsiness during a tour becoming a problem? How to solve it with diet.
Drowsiness on long journeys is a serious problem that affects the safety of the driver and other road users. The impact of diet on energy levels is crucial, and the right approach to nutrition can help prevent fatigue and drowsiness behind the wheel.
The first step in combating drowsiness is to avoid foods that cause rapid fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Consuming foods rich in processed sugars, such as sugary snacks and energy drinks, gives a quick boost of energy, but after a short time leads to a so-called reactive hypoglycemia The result is a sudden feeling of fatigue and drowsiness. To avoid this, bet on products with a low glycaemic index, which provide energy in a gradual manner. Examples include whole-grain products, vegetables and sources of healthy fats such as avocados and nuts.
On the other hand, adequate hydration is crucial in preventing fatigue. Dehydration, even to a small extent, can cause drowsiness, reduced concentration and reduced performance. Drivers should therefore reach for water regularly, avoiding over-consumption of coffee or energy drinks, which can lead to over-stimulation, resulting in a subsequent ‘energy slump’.
Physical activity during the tour
Physical activity in a driver’s job is one of the key elements of looking after health, and at the same time the biggest challenge. The long hours spent seated behind the wheel, the lack of opportunities for regular breaks and the constant rush can all contribute to health problems. Nevertheless, despite the difficult conditions, more and more drivers are choosing to introduce physical activity into their daily routine. Introducing even the smallest changes leads to improved health as well as well-being.
In recent years, it has become increasingly popular to use rest stops for quick exercises such as stretching, walking or even a short jog along the car park. Through such activities, drivers can not only improve their fitness, but also reduce the risk of health problems associated with a sedentary lifestyle.
It is also important not to limit yourself to physical exercise alone. Any opportunity to walk, even a short one, has a positive effect on circulation, reducing muscle tension and improving overall wellbeing.
Physical activity is one of the most important elements in counteracting the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle. Drivers, despite difficult working conditions, have more and more opportunities to take care of themselves and their backs while on the road. We covered this topic in detail in our article on physical activity on the road.
LCL Spedition – A company that cares about drivers and supports them every step of the way
The job of an international driver is a challenging one. At LCL Spedition, we realise how important the health and well-being of our drivers is. That’s why we not only provide the necessary working tools and attractive employment conditions, but also focus on partnerships that make working for us a pleasure and not just a chore.
In our company, a partnership approach means that you can count on help, whatever the situation. In addition, clear bonus rules motivate you to achieve ever better results.
If you are looking for a place where not only the work is rewarding, but also the atmosphere is conducive to development, then our company is for you. We believe that a driver’s job is about more than just doing your job. It is about exploring new places, challenges and the satisfaction of travelling. That’s why we create such an environment so that each of our drivers feels comfortable and valued at work. Our attention to partnerships makes our drivers stay with us for a long time. You can find our full range of jobs for drivers under the Careers tab.
Join the LCL Spedition team! Work for a company that cares about its drivers, providing comfort, support and growth opportunities.
If you are interested, please send your CV to: career@lcl-spedition.com.