It’s getting to be that time of year for summer vacation fun! You may be thinking before reading this post Why try to stay healthy on vacation? Vacation is, of course, that time to let loose and indulge. The reason I try to make healthy choices on vacation is so that I can feel my best while away and truly enjoy my time. If I over-indulge in junk food, libations, being sedentary and not sleeping well I know I will not feel my best during the trip or upon returning home.
Honestly, being healthy does not require restricting yourself 24/7. It’s important to let loose and indulge from time to time. I am healthy 80% of the time and 20% of the time I do not stress! It is important to know yourself and where YOU are at in your health journey. Stressing about your health is not good either!
The goal is to feel well during vacation and when you get back home to feel refreshed and energized, not sluggish and tired.
HOW TO SET UP FOR VACATION SUCCESS…
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SNACK FOOD
There are many healthy snack options available to us now-a-days. Gluten free, dairy free options are available in many different easy to go options like bars. Some of my favorite snack bar options are KIND bars and meat sticks like Paleo Valley meat sticks. Also, packing things like apples, carrots, and celery sticks with nut butter to curb that airport hunger!
2. EATING OUT
Most of us eat out more than usual while on vacation. This is when google can be your best friend to finding healthy restaurants. While ordering out consider these tips:
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Pick a restaurant with healthy options
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Look for clean protein
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Steam, broil or grill your protein choice
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Choose steamed, al dente or sauteed vegetables
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Choose olive oil with lemon for your dressing and add salt and pepper to taste
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Skip the complimentary bread
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Choose to have your sauces or dips on the side
3. HYDRATE
Libations are typically a part of any vacation, and you might find yourself having a few drinks on vacation. Just remember to hydrate! Pick up some lemons, fresh herbs, a cucumber and some berries at the store and add these to your water for an extra boost and to replenish your electrloytes. Or pick up some LMNT packets on amazon and carry these with you.
4. MOVE YOUR BODY!
Explore the new area you are in by foot or bicycle! Hiking, walking, swimming and biking are all great ways to explore and get some exercise while you are vacating! Make your goal to move your body in some way every day while you are away.
I hope these tips are helpful and lead you to having a relaxing vacation and feeling rested upon your return home, all while making some great memories 🙂
