KaiMD

How can I avoid gaining weight on vacation?

October 11th, 2012

Vacation is a great time to unwind and relax. We should be mindful that it can potentially make you gain weight. Often on our vacations, we change our routines and may not go to the gym or forgo running. I suggest that we should all have “active” vacations. Play sports such as frisbee or paddleball on the beach. Spend an afternoon walking through a museum, or window shopping in town.

Running through a park in a new city can be a chance to get your exercise and do sightseeing at the same time. Maybe you’ll run by a small hidden art museum that you and your family can visit later in the day.  Exercise is also a great way to fight jet lag.

Foodwise, be careful to make wise food choices. If you must have ice cream or pastries, make sure it is a reasonable portion. Perhaps share treats with a friend.  Try to avoid buffets as we tend to overeat when food is readily available. Limit yourself to one plate only. Remember to load up on fruits and veggies and limit the amount of carbohydrates and fats.  As I mentioned in a previous post, you should also be wary about the calories in alcoholic drinks.