Meals Matter
Meals Matter
About me:
The Meals Matter Blog offers advice and tips on using a positive and realistic approach for meal planning, healthy eating, feeding families and fitness. Posts are written by registered dietitians, staff and guest bloggers of the Dairy Council of California.
Follow Meals Matter on Twitter @mealsmatter
Connect with Meals Matter on Facebook
Are you excited about your summer vacation, yet weary of the potential pounds you may gain in the process? Whether you are planning to enjoy an extended weekend or a longer getaway, following these simple tips will let you get the most out of your vacation while still keeping your weight and overall health in check.
Tip #1: Enjoy your food, just watch the portion sizes.
Eating out is a desirable part of being on vacation, and often times it is the only option. Often, the major downside to restaurant meals is the over-sized portions. Here are some easy ways to ensure your portion size is right on target:
- Ask for a ‘to-go’ box and put half of your meal aside for later.
- Share your entree.Ask for the “lunch-size” portion.
- Order a small appetizer with a side soup or salad.
- Focus on three meals a day and limit snacking in between.
- Don’t be fooled by the advertised value of larger portions; quantity doesn’t always equal quality.
Tip #2: Chose accommodations wisely.
Where you stay plays a huge role in how easily you can make positive physical activity and food choices. Ask these questions before you make your reservation:
- Does the facility have an on-site activity center, pool or safe access to a walking path?
- Does the facility offer a balanced breakfast each morning? Eating a healthy breakfast helps you resist overeating later in the day.
- Is it in close proximity to restaurants which offer a variety of healthy choices?
Tip #3: Relax … but make time to move!
Whether you are planning a trip to the ocean or a historical destination, planning physical activities that get you moving is easy and good for your health. So go ahead and enjoy reading that book by the pool, but maybe jump in and swim a few laps every so often! See the numerous sights your destination has to offer, but try to reach some of them by foot or bike.
Check out The Healthy Vacation Guide for more tips on how to maintain your health while on vacation.