It’s vacation time…
a time to gather with family and friends
a time for a change of scenery – beach, lake, mountains, another city, another country
a time to relax and unwind
a time for expanded waistlines — wait – what?
Yes, it’s that time of year when you’re away from your normal routine. You’re taking a break in a location away from home.
If you’re staying in a hotel, there’s no kitchen, and you need to eat out every meal.
If you rent a place with family and friends, you’re probably surrounded by tempting snacks and food.
How can you not expand your waistline?
Well, try following these seven tips:
1- When traveling, pack healthy snacks to avoid the temptation of buying junk food.
Try nuts, raisins, cherries, grapes, sunflower seeds – anything natural.
2- Drink water all day long.
You’ll feel less hungry by staying hydrated and sipping on water all day.
If you’re consuming alcohol, drink a glass of water between each alcoholic beverage.
3- Socialize away from food to avoid mindless snacking.
If snacks and food are on a table in the kitchen, relocate yourself to another room.
4- Before going to a restaurant, look at the menu online and choose a healthy option.
When at the restaurant, do not look at the menu again, or you may be tempted to change your choice to an unhealthy option.
5- Find ways to increase physical activity during the day – go for a long walk, bike, run, or swim.
6- Utilize the fitness center at the hotel or nearby – even if it’s only for 15 minutes of strength training every other day.
7- Pack clothes that won’t fit if you gain a few pounds.
This tip will keep you mindful of what you’re eating and how much you’re eating.
While being on vacation is a great way to take a break from your normal routine, gaining a few pounds can be difficult to lose when you return to reality.
Watch what you eat and how much you eat. When it comes to food, avoid using the phrase “…but I’m on vacation.”
Challenge yourself to return home with the same (or less) weight.
(Update to original post from June 23, 2017)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP®, is a Managing Director at Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include developing comprehensive financial plans, divorce financial reviews, and retirement plans. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’”