Getting Away without Getting Away from Your Diet
Vacation should be relaxing, and dieting is the last thing you want to worry about while you're enjoying your time off. Many people work hard in the weeks prior to a vacation, only to gain weight while traveling. Here is how not to stress, but remain mindful of your diet plan while you are headed to your destination.
Road Trips - Traveling in the car makes it very easy to pull over for your food-fix. Again, being prepared with healthy supplies makes it easier to avoid pit-stops and food-traps. Stay hydrated by drinking enough water and pack fresh fruits and vegetables to enjoy while on your road trip. If you must stop at a fast-food place to eat, try to eat from their healthier selections. Even burger eateries have salad selections now!
Losing Weight is Peanuts - most airlines have cut back on food served anyway, but the selections you do get aren't always the best. You can counteract this by bringing your own food onboard. Just be sure that the amount and type of foods conform to airline security guidelines. Apples, carrots, celery and small sandwiches should be acceptable. Many terminals also have "snack shacks" that offer dried fruits, nuts or salads-to-go. These are better choices than fast-food or dessert options.
All You Can't Eat - All-inclusive vacations are real threats to your weight loss plan. Stick to your diet by selecting only the freshest foods such as fish or fruits and vegetables. Avoid anything covered in cheese and sauces, and be careful with salad dressing selections. Try to have a low-fat dessert instead of cakes or pies; usually low-fat or lite frozen yogurt is offered, just don't use toppings! Try to make food choices based upon nutritional value and remember that the results are worth it! It's better to exercise good judgment while on vacation, than to come home and have to work extra hard or start all over again.
The most important thing is to stay balanced; you don't need to stress about your diet, as relaxation and a stress-free environment can help you stay healthy, too! Just be mindful and don't participate in 'mindless' eating. Do as you would at home by making time to eat several small, balanced meals. This helps prevent giving into cravings that may develop later or even letting yourself binge on unhealthy foods. Dieting can be possible while on vacation, as long as you stick to your goals.
Maintain your exercise routine while on vacation. Most hotels now have exercise facilities, but you can also take a break from your typical routine by enjoying the outdoors, taking a run, bike ride or a swim in the ocean. Some gyms offer day-passes for visitors or your gym may even have a reciprocity program, which allows you to visit a location in another state. Vacations offer a great way to get in needed, yet enjoyable, exercise to help you get fit!