23/04/2025
By Kelechi Deca
That's Why They Serve You Small Portion of Food in Airplanes.
Oftentimes, I hear people mostly first time flyers or non frequent flyers complain about the portions of food they serve as part of in-flight refreshments.
Infact, some frequent flyers find themselves waxing entitled in this regard too, especially when they calculate how much they paid for tickets, they expect to be well fed. However, aside from the need for airplanes to maintain certain weight band so as not to jeopardise the lift, another important reason is health.
The human body is intricately designed and at certain heights, its optimal utilisation of resources can be hampered. While food can digest at 40,000 feet altitude, the process of such digestion is far slower and less efficient.
High altitudes, like those experienced in commercial flights (around 30,000 to 40,000 feet), can affect the digestive system. The body prioritizes oxygen delivery to vital organs, potentially slowing down digestion.
This is because of factors like reduced oxygen levels and changes in cabin pressure. While the digestive system itself isn't completely shut down, some individuals may experience digestive issues like nausea, constipation, or bloating due to the physiological effects of altitude.
Reduced oxygen levels (hypoxia) at altitude can impact the digestive process, as the body needs oxygen to function efficiently. Moreso, changes in cabin pressure during ascent and descent can also affect digestion.
This happens when gas in the gut expands , leading to bloating and discomfort, and in some individuals this may lead to digestive issues at altitude than others.
Add to all of the above is the issue of turbulence. It can discombobulate your entire system such that the bodies ability to function optimally is temporarily suspended. Some passengers feel so nauseous that they throw up, while others may suffer the effects days after the flight in forms of circadian recalibration and light headedness.
This is why it is always advisable to eat light, easy-to-digest meals, stay hydrated, and avoid excessive salt or greasy foods before and during a flight.
So next time you open your food inflight, don't be disappointed, they're helping your ministry.Limit intake of salty snacks like chips, salted nuts, and other salty snacks can contribute to dehydration. Spicy foods can also lead to dehydration, so for those who look forward to that Air Peace pepper soup, handle with care.
For coffee lovers like me, slow down to a cup or two but complement it with enough water intake.
