With summer's end coming up fast, some of us will be trying to cram in a last minute vacation. So here are a few tips from Shaklee's Director of Medical Affairs and Health Sciences, Pamela Riggs.
By: Pamela Riggs
I’ll be the first to say I love
summer!
The days are longer, the weather is warmer, and it’s the time of year
when we all deserve a nice, long vacation!
Whether you’re planning a trip to
some far-away, exotic location or simply planning a “stay-cation” this year,
vacation travel may make you a little uneasy and stressed about maintaining
healthful eating and exercise habits.
If you’re trying to lose weight, eating
on the road also can sabotage your efforts.
To help you have a healthy—yet
relaxing—summer vacation, here are my top 10 health and wellness tips:
1. Think
ahead. Do your homework. Use the Internet to find
healthful food options in the town(s) you plan to visit. Many restaurants have
their menu available online for you to review in advance.
2. Make
smart food choices. Order half portions, share an entrée with your
travel partner, and don’t be afraid to make special requests.
3. Limit
alcohol. You’ve pictured it for weeks: you on a
tropical island with a mai tai in hand. Although moderate alcohol consumption has
been linked to certain health benefits, alcohol tends to increase your appetite
and provides extra calories and few or no nutrients.
4. Walk
it off. Rest and relaxation are important parts of any
vacation, but staying active is a great way to manage your weight and boost
your energy level. Pack a pedometer and be sure to sight-see on foot whenever
possible. Better yet, plan an “active vacation” or walking tour of your
destination.
5. Pay
attention to hunger and satiety signals. Try
to avoid the “I’m on vacation!” mind-set. Eat because your body is truly
hungry, and stop eating at the first signs of satiety.
6. Make
water your best friend. Traveling can dehydrate you. Especially if
your plans require long plane rides or spending time in the sun or at the
beach. If you can, be sure to stock your hotel room, backpack, or car with
plenty of water.
7. Order
special meals. If available, make a special request of the
airline before you travel to have a vegetarian or low-fat meal, which will
likely have fewer calories and be your healthiest option.
8. Get
five a day. Make an effort to get your five servings of fruits
and vegetables every day. High in fiber, good for your digestion, and
packed with immune-supporting vitamins and minerals. The perfect way to make
meals more nutritious and filling.
9. Pack
exercise clothes. A T-shirt, some yoga pants, and/or gym shorts won’t
take up too much space. And at the very least, remember to pack a good pair of
walking shoes.
10. Enjoy
the scenery. You’re on vacation, so remember to focus your
attention on the scenery around you instead of the food. Enjoy learning all
about the new places you’re visiting, connecting with the locals, and spending
quality time with your family or friends.
**************************************************************************
~Healthy Nutrition – Changing brands can change your life! As
the number one national nutrition company in America, we’ve been helping people
live healthier for over 50 years. Are you ready to change your life? Visit our
website and see how we can help – To
Be Healthy
Comments