Avoid vacation weight gain: 5 tips
If the past behavior of vacationers is any indication of their behavior this coming vacation season — and it is — we are likely to see travelers packing more than T-shirts and souvenirs when they head home. They are likely to be carrying some extra pounds too.
Many people actually expect to gain weight while on vacation, not
because they want to but because they have no guidance on how to prevent it. To help you avoid returning home heavier than when you left — and in a
shameless
plug for my book, The Complete Travel Diet — I offer up the following
five
tips.
1. Eat. While you may not expect to find “eat” as a dieting tip, it is essential
to
any viable weight-loss or weight-maintenance program. While traveling to
your destination, you may go for many hours without the opportunity to
find
food. Not good. Putting your body in this state of deprivation will
cause it
to conserve rather than burn fat, and it will make you hungry –
“famished”
is the word you’ll probably use — causing you to overeat as soon as you
get
the chance. If you will be spending many hours in transit, take along
some
healthful snacks to keep your body satiated.
2. Keep hydrated. Low humidity in airplane passenger compartments pulls moisture from your
skin, and high temperatures at your destination can cause your body to
perspire. Both consequences redirect water that your digestive system
needs
to function efficiently. Moreover, a stomach that is filled — even with
just water — can lessen the sense of hunger and help prevent you from
overeating. So drink plenty of water while on your way to your
destination
and while you are there as well.
3. Limit caffeine and alcohol. Alcohol and caffeine can act as diuretics — not the effect you are
seeking
when trying to keep yourself hydrated.
4. Walk. Whenever possible, avoid using trams, moving sidewalks, people movers,
escalators, elevators or other mechanical conveyances. Take a hike
rather
than a drive. Walk to the beach rather than hopping on a shuttle.
Try to get in some additional time moving rather than sitting and
“vegging
out.” You can easily burn a few extra hundred Calories a day just by
walking.
5. Enjoy yourself. You’re on vacation. It’s time to unwind and enjoy yourself. Trying to
adhere
to a strict routine can get in the way of that enjoyment. Instead follow
the
principle of moderation. Sample smaller portions of a variety of foods,
and
get out and see the sights.