Staying Healthy on Vacation

Spring break is around the corner. It's already next week for us, and with spring break brings vacation.

One of my challengers is leaving for her vacation at the end of the month, {Can I squeeze in her bag?! A vacation sounds glorious!} and she asked me the other day to help her so she didn't lose all the way she had come.

I happen to have some tips for her, and I wanted share here too because I know she is not alone. I know for me, I can sometimes tell myself, "It's vacation; I'm going to eat anything and everything because we don't do trips like this everyday!" And while it's fine to enjoy yourself, you don't want to throw away all that time you spent sweating, pushing yourself, saying no to that cookie, etc.

• Pack Your Own Snacks - For the road trip or plane ride, be sure to have healthy snack options in your bag so you are not grabbing something at a gas station or only left with the option of having cookies or chips on the plane. Apples, pears, unsalted raw almonds, raw veggies with individual hummus cups are all great options.

• Fill Up on Healthy Foods - When eating from the breakfast or lunch buffet, make sure to choose fruits, veggies, oatmeal, etc. That way if later in the day you are left with a less healthier option, at least you got in a couple servings of your fiber and produce.

• Ask Server How Meals are Prepared - When eating out, don't be afraid to ask this or make special requests. Modify the meal by asking for baked or boiled instead of fried. Have them make it using less oil or butter. Ask them to not add addition butter. Choose the low-cal or low-fat options. 

• Share Your Meal - The serving sizes at restaurants can be ridiculous! Consider ordering a half-order or an appetizer as your meal. If you are with a group, share your meal with one of your friends. Before you even start eating, ask the server for a box and put half of your meal in there. 

• Water is Your Best Friend! - Drink a glass of water before every meal and snack. Keep water with you at all times and continue drinking it throughout the day. You are supposed to drink half of your body weight in ounces, so be sure you are still getting that in while relaxing. 

• Focus on the Company - Vacation isn't just about food and splurging! It's time to enjoy the people you are with! Focus on them. Engage, laugh and have fun! Find activities that you can do to fill your day.