Vacations give you that much-needed you time; time to recharge your mind, body, and soul.
But they also come with a couple of challenges, staying on track with your health goals being one of them.
So, how do you balance the joy of exploring new cuisines with the commitment to your diet?
We’re here to help you out with some of our tried and tested tips.
1. Plan Smart
It’s no secret travel takes a toll on our bodies, from prolonged periods of sitting to unexpected airport delays.
While you can’t control a lot of these things, you can control what you put into your body.
The key? Plan smart; pack smart.
Always be prepared when hunger strikes. Take some time to prepare a few snacks for when you travel. Dried nuts, fruits, energy bars, and cheese sticks are great options.
It’s also a good idea to review the menus of surrounding restaurants and the hotel you’re staying at. Consider choosing restaurants with a varied dining offering, focusing on ones that prioritize cooking with fresh produce. This helps you maintain your diet by lowering your intake of rich, fatty, and high-caloric foods.
2. Eat Mindfully
Your shift in schedule and activity during vacations can really wreak havoc on your digestive system.
Sometimes, you might go hours without food. The next thing you know, you’re ordering two Big Macs, nuggets, extra large fries, and an ice cream.
To combat this, focus on mindful eating:
- Opt for lighter, plant-rich, protein-dense meals
- Practice portion control by sharing dishes
- Avoid the pitfalls of excessive fried and creamy foods
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in the delicious food and drinks on Mexican beaches, a little sweet treat from an authentic French pâtisserie, or an ice cream from that famous Italian gelateria.
3. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration is common when traveling. From long flights to endless sightseeing, staying hydrated is a must for your digestion and to avoid those ‘hangry’ snack attacks.
Keep a refillable water bottle close and stash some electrolyte packets for those extra-active days. While those exotic drinks and fried treats might be tempting, remember that water is your best friend when it comes to staying healthy on the go.
4. Don’t Skip Breakfast
You know that cliche that “breakfast is the most important meal of the day”? Well, when you’re traveling, this couldn’t be more true. It kickstarts your metabolism, helping you avoid overeating later on.
Load up your breakfast plate with lean protein, fresh fruits, and whole grains to keep you satisfied and ready to tackle the rest of the day.
5. Keep Active
Staying active on vacation generally looks a little different from how you’d go about it back home. If you’re not staying at a hotel that has a gym, you’ll likely get in most of your activity from simply being on holiday. 
From roaming the streets to taking part in various outdoor activities, you’ll get plenty of opportunities to move your body. You could also consider booking a walking tour of the city you’re staying in, snorkeling, or kayaking.
A Healthy, Happy Vacation
Maintaining a healthy diet while on vacation is certainly doable. By eating mindfully eating, staying hydrated, and choosing healthy alternatives, you’ll be able to both reach your goals and enjoy your well-deserved time off.