When taking a flight, it is important to consider the types of foods you consume as not everything may be suitable for consumption before flying. Certain foods can cause discomfort, bloating, and even motion sickness while flying.

In this article, we will discuss the top 30 foods to avoid before boarding a plane.

Foods to Avoid

1. Spicy foods

Spicy foods can cause heartburn and indigestion which can be uncomfortable when flying, especially when turbulence occurs.

2. Carbonated drinks

Carbonated drinks can cause gas and bloating. Additionally, the change in altitude can cause the gas in your stomach to expand leading to discomfort.

3. Alcohol

Consuming alcohol can cause dehydration, which can exacerbate the effects of altitude. It is best to avoid alcohol while flying to minimize any discomfort and dehydration.

4. Fried foods

Fried foods are high in fat and can be difficult to digest. They may also cause heartburn, which can be uncomfortable during a flight.

5. High fiber foods

Foods high in fiber take longer to digest and may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. It is best to avoid these foods before flying to minimize any discomfort.

6. Garlic and onions

Garlic and onions can cause bad breath, but they also contain sulfur compounds that can cause gas and discomfort.

7. Dairy products

Dairy products can be difficult to digest and may cause bloating and gas. Avoid consuming dairy products before flying to minimize any discomfort.

8. Spicy snacks (chips)

Spicy snacks such as chips can cause heartburn and indigestion, which can be uncomfortable when flying, especially when turbulence occurs.

9. Citrus Foods

Foods high in citric acid, such as oranges and grapefruits, can irritate the stomach lining and cause discomfort.

10. Artificial sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners can cause bloating and gas. They can also cause gastrointestinal discomfort, especially for those with sensitive stomachs.

11. Beans and lentils

Beans and lentils are high in fiber and can cause gastrointestinal discomfort.

12. Chocolate

Chocolate contains caffeine, sugar, and fat, which can cause discomfort and dehydration, especially for those who may be sensitive to these ingredients.

13. Energy drinks

Energy drinks contain caffeine and sugar, which can cause dehydration and discomfort.

14. Red meat

Red meat is high in fat and can be difficult to digest. It may also cause heartburn, which can be uncomfortable during a flight.

15. Cabbage and broccoli

Cruciferous vegetables like cabbage and broccoli can cause gas and bloating due to their high fiber content.

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16. Tuna

Tuna is a high protein food that can cause bad breath, especially if consumed before a flight.

17. Canned foods

Canned foods often contain high amounts of sodium which can cause bloating and dehydration.

18. Salty snacks

Salty snacks can cause dehydration and bloating due to their high sodium content.

19. Fatty foods

Fatty foods take longer to digest and can cause gastrointestinal discomfort.

20. Dried fruit

Dried fruit contains a high amount of fiber, which can cause gastrointestinal discomfort when consumed in large quantities.

21. Pickled foods

Pickled foods contain high amounts of sodium, which can cause bloating and dehydration.

22. Ice cream

Ice cream is high in sugar and fat, which can cause dehydration and discomfort, especially for those who may be lactose intolerant.

23. Instant noodles

Instant noodles contain high amounts of sodium, which can cause bloating and dehydration, especially when consumed before a flight.

24. High sodium foods

High sodium foods can cause bloating and dehydration, especially during a flight.

25. Peppermint

Peppermint can cause heartburn and worsen acid reflux, which can be uncomfortable when flying.

26. Guacamole

Guacamole is high in fat and can be difficult to digest, causing gastrointestinal discomfort.

27. Hot dogs

Hot dogs are high in fat and sodium, which can cause bloating and dehydration when consumed before a flight.

28. Licorice

Licorice can cause high blood pressure, which can be exacerbated in high altitude environments.

29. BBQ foods

BBQ foods are high in fat, sodium, and sugar, which can cause dehydration and discomfort during a flight.

30. Bubble tea

Bubble tea contains high amounts of sugar and can cause dehydration and discomfort during a flight.

Conclusion

When traveling by air, it is important to consider the types of foods you consume before a flight. Certain foods can cause discomfort, bloating, and even motion sickness while flying.

In general, it is best to stick to lighter meals and avoid anything high in fat, fiber, or sodium. It is also recommended to stay hydrated before and during your flight.