In 2010, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health interviewed 1,670 long-haul truck drivers at 32 truck stops across the United States.
The National Survey of Long-Haul Truck Driver Health and Injury discovered that the prevalence of obesity (BMI of 30 or higher) was a whopping 69%, twice as high as the 31% of the national working population.
17% were categorized as morbidly obese (a BMI of 40 or higher), also more than twice as high as the national population with 7%.
At the same time, of the 1,670 long-haul drivers surveyed, only half as many truck drivers are covered by insurance (17% vs. 38%) compared to the national work population.
An unhealthy lifestyle and lack of healthy food options increases their risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cancer, joint and back pain, and stroke.
Some of these health issues can affect their ability to receive their commercial driver’s license.
For a truck driver, who may not have access to heating or cooling equipment, some meal preparation may be required in order to eat healthier. Good news though! It can save a good bit of money in the long run.
Here are some healthy food options for each meal of the day:
For breakfast:
- Oatmeal
- Fresh fruit
- Low-fat yogurt
- Whole-wheat toast with peanut butter and fruit
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Egg whites (1 egg yolk = 60% of your daily value of cholesterol)
- Protein/cereal bars
- Sausage and Egg Breakfast Rolls
Snacks:
- Low-fat string cheese
- Hummus and veggies
- Fruit with Nut Butter
- Unsalted mixed nuts
- Whole-grain crackers
- Beef or turkey jerky
- Popcorn
- Nuts
- Trail mix
- Tuna Pouch
For lunch:
- Tomato, avocado and fried egg sandwich
- Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Rollups
- Turkey or veggie wrap: whole-wheat tortilla, turkey, romaine lettuce, low-fat cheese and mustard
- Grilled chicken salad with low fat dressing
- Veggie or turkey burger (preferably without mayo, ketchup or cheese)
For dinner:
- Buffalo Chicken Hand Pies
- Beef and Guinness Hand Pies
- Baked Ham and Cheese Rollups
- Veggie-Packed Salmon Patties
- Chicken salad sandwich
Desserts:
- Fat free ice cream or sorbet
- Frozen grapes or strawberries
- Frozen yogurt
- Frozen fruit bars/ice pops
- Low-fat yogurt with fruit and granola
Hopefully these alternatives can help transition from fast food to quick, healthy meals!
Resources:
https://blog.driveforprime.com/2014/08/healthy-simple-truck-driver-food-ideas-from-prime-inc/
http://www.atbs.com/knowledge-hub/10-healthy-snacks-for-the-road
https://blogs.cdc.gov/niosh-science-blog/2015/03/03/truck-driver-health/
