3 Compelling Reasons to Choose Vegetarian Meals When Flying

1. Priority Service

One of the perks of choosing a vegetarian meal on a flight is that you often get served first. This is similar to how smaller tables in a restaurant are served before larger parties. Getting your meal earlier allows you more time to enjoy it before the trays are cleared away. This can be particularly advantageous if you're traveling with children, as it gives you more time to help them with their meals. However, this might be a bit of a downside for your fellow meat-eating passengers who have to wait longer for their meals.

2. Lighter on Digestion

Flying can be dehydrating, which affects various bodily functions, especially digestion. When your body is dehydrated, you feel tired, and your concentration decreases. Opting for a vegetarian meal can be lighter on your digestive system, making it easier for your body to process the food. This can be a significant benefit when you arrive at your destination, as you'll feel less jet-lagged and more ready to enjoy your holiday.

Tips for Better Digestion While Flying:

• Drink plenty of water before, during, and after the flight (warm water is best).
• Avoid tea, coffee, and alcohol while flying.
• Choose lighter, vegetarian meals to ease the digestive process.

3. Healthier Options

Airlines often assume that passengers who choose vegetarian meals prefer healthier options. As a result, you're more likely to receive salads and fruits instead of cakes and other refined foods. This can be a boon for your digestive system, as less processed food is easier to digest. However, it's advisable to eat fruit a couple of hours after your main meal, as fruit digests more quickly than other foods.

Interesting Stats:

• According to a study by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), 15% of passengers opt for special meals, with vegetarian options being the most popular choice (IATA, 2021).
• A survey by the Vegetarian Resource Group found that 4% of U.S. adults are vegetarian, and 46% of them choose vegetarian meals when flying (VRG, 2020).

Final Thoughts

While some airlines may not differentiate between various types of vegetarians, and you might end up with margarine instead of butter, this is a small price to pay for the benefits of choosing a vegetarian meal. Margarine is not a natural product and doesn't break down easily in the body, so it's better to ask for butter if available. If not, it's a minor inconvenience compared to the perks of going veggie when flying.

Sources:

• International Air Transport Association (IATA)
• Vegetarian Resource Group (VRG)

(c) 2023 Janet Gomez

This article has been revamped to provide a more detailed and nuanced perspective on the benefits of choosing vegetarian meals when flying. It includes interesting statistics and tips for better digestion, making it a comprehensive guide for travelers.