Health Tips for Every Truck Driver
Being a professional truck driver is a fantastic career. There are countless benefits to driving a truck for a living. You get to work on the road and see new places on a daily basis. However, there are certain health issues to be aware of.
Fortunately, there are ways to avoid these common health concerns for truck drivers, and we’re here to show you how. Keep reading for everything you need to know about how to stay healthy on the road.
Protect Yourself From the Sun
First, let’s talk about your skin health. Most people don’t think that driving in a truck all day could be detrimental to your skin. However, you need to recognize that the left side of your body will be exposed to unfiltered sunlight for most of the day.
For this reason, we recommend applying sunscreen every day before you start driving. It might need to be applied multiple times a day. Alternatively, you could wear long sleeves.
Additionally, you need to protect your eyes from the sun by wearing sunglasses. To cut out glare while driving directly towards the sun, consider wearing a brimmed hat.
Avoid Sugary Beverages
Another threat to truck driver health is diet. Over 60% of Canadians are overweight or obese. In any a job that requires a lot of sitting, it is important to be mindful of diet and exercise.
You can limit unintentional weight gain by avoiding sugary drinks. This includes:
- Sports drinks
- Sodas
- Sugary coffees
- Energy drinks
- Milkshakes
- Juice
While it’s okay to have flavoured beverages and energy drinks, make sure they have low sugar content.
Find Healthy Meal Options
It can be incredibly convenient (and temporarily satisfying) to opt for fast food and other unhealthy snacks as a truck driver.
These types of foods are fast, cheap, and readily available. However, these high-fat, high-carb, and heavily processed foods are terrible for your health. Instead, find healthier options. Try to eat salads, lean meats, fruits, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates.
Take Time to Exercise Every Day
Finally, some of the most common health concerns for truck drivers stem from being inactive. While stopping at a rest stop or taking time to park and eat, spend a little time being active. Get out, walk around, and stretch your legs.
We also recommend developing a simple exercise routine at the end of your day. This could include bodyweight squats, pushups, lunges, etc. You could even pack some free weights or exercise bands with you in your truck.
Looking for Truck Driver Tips?
Follow our health tips for truck drivers listed above to maintain your physical well-being while on the road. For more advice, read through some of our other blog articles to find more tips for professional truck drivers.
If you’re driving through British Columbia or Alberta, be sure stop by R James Management Group! Click the link above to schedule a service.