Who doesn’t love a vacation? Time to relax and have fun and not be concerned about calories and diets, etc. That's the point, right? We’re on vacation and we want to… indulge! But then it happens: we return home. And the reality hits us that all that indulging threw us off our healthy routines – and gave us a higher number on the scale. We’ve all been there, but no worries!
I’ve put together some simple tips to help keep us healthy – and happy – while on vacation.
WORK OUT!
Even if you find yourself eating more while you are away, you can still set aside time each day to exercise. Try and block out at least 45 minutes a day to do some sort of physical activity. If your hotel doesn’t have a gym, long walks on the beach or swimming laps in the pool work just as well. If you’re in the mountains, go for a hike!
DON'T OVERINDULGE AT MEALS!
Of course, when we’re on vacation, the last thing we want to feel is deprived – so go ahead and enjoy yourself, but just in moderation. You can have a taste of that yummy dessert your family ordered –just don't eat the whole thing! And if you know you’re having a bigger meal at dinnertime, try eating lighter throughout the day. Also, make sure you ask a lot of questions: Dressing on the side? What kind of oil do you use? Is there butter in that? Can i get an appetizer portion, etc?
AVOID THE MINI BAR!
Will help you physically and financially!
DRINK TONS OF WATER!
When we travel we are out of our normal routine – we may be imbibing more margaritas, or maybe we’re at a higher altitude (or both!) and this can contribute to dehydration. So please be sure to drink plenty of water regularly throughout the day.
PACK YOUR PROBIOTICS!
We’ve all heard of Montezuma’s Revenge – and let me tell you, it’s no myth. So if you take only one supplement with you on vacation, make sure it’s your probiotic. When we travel we tend to eat and drink all sorts of of stuff we don’t normally eat and drink at home – and this can wreak havoc on our gut, digestion, and overall health. Taking just one probiotic daily while traveling aids in avoiding these stomach issues.
GET YOUR SERVINGS OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES!
Be sure not to skimp on these essentials – eating plenty of fruits and veggies makes our meals more filling and satisfying. And – a bonus – they provide us with much needed fiber.
BE PREPARED!
Be sure to pack some of your favorite dry food items for the plane ride. Items such as protein bars, nuts, dried fruits, and protein powder for drinks, to name a few, will get us healthily to our destinations.
So if you're a traveling this Spring Break, heed these suggestions and I promise you will feel healthy and energized on your return!
Save travels and Bon Voyage!