Summer is almost here, and for many of us that means it’s time for a break. But no matter if that includes an escape to the beach, a road trip across the country, an island cruise, or a foreign adventure, that break may make it tough to stick to your normal diet.
That can be stressing – especially for those of us who have been trying to lose weight or keep extra pounds off, because trips often revolve around indulgences (like rich food and drink). However, there are several little, easy things that you can do to make sure you don’t wreck your good health on vacation.
In fact, Longstreet Clinic Center for Weight Management Registered Dietician Amy Sabbag says that by committing to these steps, you can return from your trip both rested and just as healthy as when you left.
“There’s no need to panic about going on vacation,” Sabbag said. “Just be aware, make small choices, and you can still have plenty of fun without having to worry too much about gaining weight.”
Amy’s Sabbag’s 5 tips for staying healthy while on vacation
1. Stay active.
You can walk, you can hike, you can rent a bicycle, you can swim, you can even use the hotel gym, just to add a little physical activity while you’re on vacation. A little bit does go a long way.
2. Mimic your home diet when you can.
Try to stay as close as possible to your regular eating plan. When you’re on vacation you’re going to want to indulge in some different things that you normally don’t eat every day, but it’s best to go with eating somewhat like you do at home. If you go to a restaurant and you’re really hungry and you sit down and eat bread and chips first, you’re going to eat more because you’re hungry. But if you start off with your protein and vegetables, you fill up your stomach a little bit, you won’t eat as much of the carbohydrates.
3. Pack good snacks.
Think about bringing some healthy snacks on your vacation with you. If you’re driving on your vacation, it will help you from being tempted to buy unhealthy snacks from the gas station or drive-through. It will also save you money. So, have some healthy snacks in the car or your travel bag.
4. Stay hydrated.
Hydration is so important as the weather gets warmer and we start sweating more. Water is going to be your best bet for hydration. Definitely stay away from sugary drinks. Sugar will dehydrate you. It will not quench your thirst. So, if you’re drinking a sugary drink, you’re just going to want to drink more and more of that. Bring your water bottle on vacation.
5. You don’t have to be perfect.
Don’t look at this as an all or nothing. You don’t want to over-indulge on vacation, but you also don’t want to over-restrict on vacation. Moderation on vacation is the best idea.
If you find yourself in need of more tips like these, or you think you need professional help in losing weight, know that the caring professionals at the Center for Weight Management are here for you. Providers like Amy Sabbag, R.D., tailor proven dietary solutions to your specific needs, and the results of this approach help you maximize your success. Contact us today or call 770-534-0110 where one of our weight loss specialists is ready to assist you.
