4 Beverages that Deliver Health Benefits for OTR Truckers

Research published by the National Institute of Health indicates that more than 40 percent of truckers are at risk of cardiovascular disease. A combination of working conditions and nutritional habits results in long-haul truckers ranking among the least healthy workforces.

Sitting in one position for a dozen hours daily reduces cardiovascular activity. Couple the sedentary nature of hauling loads over thousands of miles with unhealthy beverages and truck stop meals and OTR truckers have a recipe for disaster. It’s essential to understand that sugary drinks and caffeinated beverages only exacerbate truck driver health issues. By stocking up on the following healthy beverages, truckers can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

1: Organic Low-Fat Milk

It may come as something of a surprise, but Horizon and others produce low-fat milk products that do not necessarily require refrigeration until opened. The convenient portions provide 8 grams of protein, 110 calories, and only 8 percent of the daily value of saturated fat (1.5 grams). That equals 3 percent of the amount of cholesterol everyday people can take in and remain in a healthy range. You won’t find these in the refrigerated section of the supermarket. They may be located with powdered milk, coffee creamers, or in juice box aisles. It’s okay to ask for directions in the supermarket.

2: Seltzer Water

High-quality H20 remains one of the healthiest options for truckers. Zero calories and robust hydration make it perfect. But water does get a tad boring on long-haul runs. Seltzer products deliver a back-end fizz that changes up the experience. Companies have also diversified the products to include flavors such as mango, orange, lemon-lime, and many others. Seltzer is a reasonably good substitute for sugar-laced sodas and other unhealthy options.

3: Smoothies

Making a smoothie from scratch can be a tad labor-intensive. Enter the Naked, Odwalla, and Bolthouse brands, among others, which produce pre-made smoothie beverages. Typically located in near refrigerated produce in the supermarket, these healthy beverages include liquified green vegetables, tropical fruits rich in vitamin C, berries, and a line of high-protein options. Depending on the blend, the calorie intake runs anywhere from 240 to 400 for about 15 ounces. Check the label if you are calorie counting because they differ significantly.

4: Green Tea

It’s no secret that OTR truckers require a pick-me-up after a less-then-restful sleep on the side of a highway. Although organic coffee generally reduces the sometimes unhealthy elements used in production, tea tends to provide better nutritional results. Regular green tea consumption has been linked to lower heart disease and diabetes rates. Truckers who transition from coffee to green tea often find it has enough caffeine to get their engine rolling in the morning. On the other hand, the caffeine content may be just low enough to get a mid-day boost without losing sleep later.

Sources: everydayhealth.com, bolthouse.com, mynetdiary.com