Stomach issues cab make a flight horrible (Image: Getty)
If you find difficult because you often suffer from like bloating or nausea then your diet might be partially to blame.
The change in cabin pressure and oxygen levels in planes can inhibit the digestion of food, contributing to feeling bloated, gassy or nauseous.
Additionally, the low humidity in aircraft cabins can further increase dehydration and digestive issues.
However you don’t have to be at the mercy of the plane’s conditions when you travel, and by being careful what you eat before your flight and while on board you can minimise the risk of gastrointestinal issues.
Jamie Fraser, Travel Expert at US summer camp Wild Packs has outlined the food you should absolutely avoid eating before and during a flight.
He said: “The changes in cabin pressure, combined with reduced oxygen levels, the motion of the plane can inhibit the stomach from emptying, slowing down digestion.
“Essentially, this means food takes longer to pass into the small intestine, which can lead to bloating, trapped wind, and nausea. But it is important to be aware of what meals to avoid so that you can stay comfortable on your flight.”
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Certain foods can make your travel harder (Image: Getty)
The first thing to be wary of is fried foods like chips or onion rings – delicious though they are, they can trigger digestion issues.
Jamie said: “Their high fat and oil content can trigger heartburn, while their saltiness can lead to fluid retention, causing bloating and swelling. A pressurised cabin can make this experience even more uncomfortable.”
Red meat is also a no-go, before or during a flight. “Steaks, burgers and other red meat takes longer to digest, which can leave you feeling heavy and uncomfortable.
“Instead, choose white meat like chicken or fish is a better option to keep your stomach settled during the journey.”
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Coffee should be avoided (Image: Getty)
Diuretics like coffee or alcohol should be avoided too.
Fraser said: “Flying already dehydrates your body, and caffeine only makes it worse. It’s a diuretic, meaning it increases fluid loss, which can lead to headaches, nausea, and fatigue. It can also make it harder to sleep, something you should consider if travelling on a long haul flight.”
It’s also a good idea to stay away from sparkling waters or fizzy drinks.
Fraser said: “Fizzy drinks like soda and sparkling water can lead to bloating and discomfort, as the trapped gas expands in the stomach during the flight. They can also contribute to heartburn, leaving you feeling sluggish and unsettled when you land.”
High-fibre foods such as beans, broccoli and apples are great things to eat on the ground – however, the change in air pressure at high altitudes can make them cause excessive bloating and gas.
Jamie said: “The change in air pressure makes gases in the stomach expand, making foods like beans, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and even apples that are packed with fibre uncomfortable choices mid-flight.”
Spicy food is also a no-no before a flight. He added: “Dishes like curries, vindaloo, or anything filled with chilli can irritate the stomach lining, increasing the risk of acid reflux.
“This is made worse by sitting for long periods of time. Spicy foods can also contribute to dehydration and make it harder to relax or sleep on a flight.”
If you want a tummy-friendly flight, it’s a good idea to eat smaller meals more frequently rather than one big one before you board the flight.
Once you’re on board and flying, try to take breaks and move about the cabin to aid your digestion and drink plenty of water.