As a dialysis technician, you’re dedicated to providing top-notch care to your patients. But when you’re working in dialysis tech jobs, learning new cities, managing unpredictable schedules, and walking into unfamiliar kitchens every 13 weeks, maintaining your own health can feel like a whole extra job!
Eating a healthy diet while always on the go is essential, but it’s not always easy. That’s why it’s important to have a plan so you can take care of yourself. A healthy eating plan gives you the energy you need to do your job well every day, and protects your long-term health. Remember, taking care of your health isn’t selfish – it directly impacts your ability to thrive in your career and enjoy your life to the fullest!
Keep reading for some helpful tips and insights on some easy strategies for eating well while you’re working in travel dialysis tech jobs. Our team at AHS RenalStat is here to help—we actively support you throughout your journey, so you aren’t alone in managing the demands of a travel job. Connect with one of our helpful recruiters today.
Planning is Key
The foundation of success for a healthy diet when you’re traveling or on shift work is all about being proactive. This could include:
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- Accommodations with a Kitchen: When choosing a rental or temporary housing, prioritize a place with a kitchen or kitchenette. This opens up your options for storing fresh ingredients and preparing simple meals. If a full kitchen isn’t available, a microwave and mini-fridge will still give you crucial flexibility.
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- Great Grocery Store Options: Seek out larger supermarkets with a good produce section. A good shopping tip is to stick to the perimeter of the store where fresh foods are usually stocked, minimizing your time in the aisles filled with tempting processed items.
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- Fast and Easy Meals: Stock your fridge and cupboard with easy standalone items that can be combined for quick, healthy meals. For example, a package of microwavable wild rice, rotisserie chicken from the grocery store deli, and a salad kit create a satisfying dinner in minutes.
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- Keep a Snack Kit Handy: Pack a small ’emergency kit’ for your shift with non-perishable favorites like protein bars, nuts, cheese, dried fruit, or whole grain crackers. These can save you from filling up on junk food when you get hungry.
Balanced Choices When Eating Out
Eating out frequently or relying on convenience foods is common during travel assignments. Here’s how to maintain healthy habits without sacrificing convenience:
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- Restaurant Smarts: Opt for grilled, baked, or broiled dishes over fried options. Request sauces and dressings on the side for portion control. Choose sides like vegetables or a salad instead of fries. Don’t hesitate to ask about ingredients or possible substitutions to make a dish healthier.
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- Fast Food, Better Choices: When fast food is the only option, look for salads with grilled protein, burgers with whole-wheat buns (skip the cheese and bacon), or wraps with lots of veggies.
There’s certainly nothing wrong with enjoying a delicious cheeseburger and fries, but remember, it’s all about balance! If most of your meals are focused on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein, you’ll feel better overall, and can still enjoy sweet treats or indulgent meals here and there.
Staying Hydrated
Water is essential when you’re on the go and working long shifts. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating, so use these strategies to make sure you’re drinking enough water every day.
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- Beyond Just Water: While plain water is best, you can add variety with unsweetened tea, flavored seltzer, or water infused with fruits and herbs like cucumber, lemon, strawberries, or mint.
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- Track Your Intake: Carry a reusable water bottle with measurement markings to monitor how much you’re drinking. Aim to refill it several times throughout your shift.
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- Hidden Dehydrators: Drinks loaded with caffeine or sugar can actually make you lose more fluid, so try to limit coffee, energy drinks, and sugary sodas.
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- Symptoms of Dehydration: Pay attention to your body. Thirst, a dry mouth, dark-colored urine, or feeling dizzy can signal dehydration. If you notice these symptoms, it’s a sure sign you haven’t had enough water that day.
Strive for Progress, Not Perfection
Eating well in travel dialysis tech jobs is about more than just the food on your plate – it’s about your mindset. Healthy eating habits are built over time. Celebrate every small win – packing a healthy lunch, making a smart restaurant choice, discovering a new veggie you enjoy. Consistent effort leads to lasting results.
Here’s how to cultivate a positive approach to nutrition, even during hectic assignments:
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- Don’t Stress About Slip-Ups: You’re going to have days where a fast-food drive-thru is the only option, or a late night with colleagues leads to a few too many snacks. Don’t beat yourself up! Focus on getting back on track with your next meal instead of dwelling on past choices.
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- Prioritize, Don’t Deprive: Maintaining a healthy diet on the road isn’t about restriction. It’s about prioritizing nourishing foods most of the time. This leaves room for the occasional treat without triggering guilt. Think of it as an 80/20 balance – 80% whole, healthy choices with 20% flexibility.
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- Take Care of YOU: Remember, your job is incredibly demanding. Nourishing your body is a form of self-care that will help you better serve your patients. Make time for sleep, manage stress with techniques like deep breathing or short walks, and find activities that bring you joy during your off hours.
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- Support System: Connect with other traveling dialysis techs, whether in real life or through online communities. You’re not alone in this journey! Share tips, recipe ideas, and offer each other encouragement when the going gets tough.
Find Great Dialysis Tech Jobs with AHS RenalStat
Eating well as a traveling dialysis technician is absolutely possible! By planning ahead, making informed choices, and focusing on overall well-being, you can nourish your body and thrive in your career. Remember, it’s not about being perfect, it’s about making choices that support your health and energy levels.
Ready to embark on your next dialysis tech adventure? AHS RenalStat is here to help! We’ll not only find you a fantastic job but also provide tailored support throughout your assignment. Visit our job board or contact a recruiter today to discover our many dialysis tech job opportunities.
