By: Dana Gardner, MS RD LD/N
Vacation is a time where we relax, recharge and chase all our cares away. But that doesn’t mean you also forget about all the healthy habits you have successfully built into your daily routines having to stay home. With a little planning, preparation, and intention, you can find the balance of still enjoying local fares while maintaining consistency.
Pack Your Snacks
One way to control impulse buys and overly processed snacks, is to pack your favorite healthy snacks. If you are flying or are in the car for an extended period, reach for shelf stable foods such as nuts, seeds, packs of tuna, individually packaged nu butters, low sugar protein bars, and whole grain crackers. Whole fruit and no added sugar fruit cups can also be perfect additions.
Stay Hydrated
When packing, don’t forget your favorite water bottle. Keeping your water bottle near you will be a visual reminder to remember to hydrate throughout the day. If you don’t like plain water, flavor your bottle with fruits, vegetables and herbs. In addition, you can reach for hydrating fruits and vegetables such as melons, berries and, citrus fruit.
Enjoy Local Foods
One of the best parts of traveling is experiencing new foods and restaurants. When enjoying these options, don’t feel guilt or shame. Instead, give yourself permission to experience an array of items in small amounts. Eat slowly, share larger plates with others, order tapas style, and choose fruit-based desserts.
Don’t Stop Moving
Instead of catching an uber, when safe and appropriate, take a walk to your next destination. Take a walking tour instead of a trolley. Enjoy the pool or the beach or even rent a bike to get around town. Any type of movement, even if it seems fun, still counts as movement.
Keep Up with Your Medication schedule
We often lose track of time when on vacation and this can also affect medication timing. Be sure to set timers and keep medications with you throughout the day so that you can maintain your schedule. Continuing with your schedule can help you stay on track
Protect Your Skin
Time outdoors is usually increased during vacation, making our skin more susceptible to sun rays. Be sure to apply sunscreen with a SPF 40 or higher and don’t forget to reapply as needed. You can also protect your body with long sleeves, brimmed hats, and sunglasses. Don’t forget to pack these items as well.
Want more?
Check out our previous edition of Food for Thought!
Healthy eating during lunch time does not have to be a boring affair. Cultures around the world approach lunch in different ways, and incorporating fresh, culture cuisine into your weekly meal preps is a great opportunity to explore new flavors and customs, while encouraging a balanced diet that properly fuels you throughout the afternoon. Take a quick trip around the world to discover 5 easy, healthy lunch ideas that can be delicious additions to your meal rotation at home or in the office!
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Incorporating nutrient-dense foods like brown rice and veggies into your diet is a great start to improving your overall health! However, there are certainly additional foods to continue adding to your Neverita for a healthier lifestyle. Make healthy living your season-long strategy and schedule a nutrition consultation today!
