Don’t bring back extra pounds from vacation
Weight gain is the worst vacation souvenir. With summer right around the corner, peak travel season is here. Vacation is often a break from normal routines and many use it as an excuse to let loose. But, letting loose doesn’t mean a person has need to ruin their weight loss progress.
Whether it’s a day trip to the nearest lake, a weekend away at a wedding or an international vacation, they can be away from home while practicing healthy habits.
TOPS Club, Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly SM), the non-profit weight-loss support organization, with a “Real People. Real Weight Loss.” philosophy, encourages those traveling, to focus on maintaining their weight vs. losing weight while away. This removes pressure, allowing individuals to enjoy their vacation and it also lets people resume their weight loss progress when back home, without drastic measures.
Avoid packing on extra pounds by using the following travel tactics during the next vacation:
• Choose what to consume wisely – One activity all partake in while on vacation, is going out to eat, it’s part of experiencing the culture and community of any locale. After a day of travel or activity, the snacks many establishments provide at the table before ordering (bread, crackers or chips) will look appetizing, but won’t help a body stay on track. Either ask the waiter to remove or not bring any munchies, or order a healthy appetizer.
• Whenever possible, order fruits and vegetables – Swap out the side of fries for a side salad, made with spinach or romaine lettuce. Ask for grilled vegetables or fruit, with a regular entrée. Fish is also a great option, if someone is worried about the calories they’ll digest from something like a burger. Fish gives heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, if it’s grilled, not fried or battered.
• Finally, avoid drinking too much alcohol – While a drink here and there is OK, opt for water, with a lime or lemon, sparkling water or even diet soda. Pack a reusable water bottle, so not constantly spending a chunk of change on bottled water.
• Stay in moderation mode – Just because there’s the option to go to restaurants, doesn’t mean it’s necessary for every meal. Save calories and money by eating in once a day. Breakfast is a great meal to have wherever someone is staying. Visit the local grocery store and buy fresh fruit, whole grain cereal or low-sugar instant oatmeal, to get going in the morning.
Portions can be big at restaurants, but don’t let that hinder ordering what is desired. Split the entrée with a partner or someone else at the table, or eat half and takethe other half home. Do the same with dessert.
Vacation is so much more than eating and drinking, it’s a time to relax, explore, and spend time with family and friends.
Most lodging options have a gym or gym equipment, that can be used in the morning or evening, but filling days with activities is also a great way to exercise. A walking tour, exploring the city on bikes, and swimming in the ocean or pool is a great activity to get moving. Plus, it’s so much fun, it won’t feel like exercise!
