Do vacations and healthy eating habits have to be mutually exclusive? No, no they don't! You indeed can do both: enjoy your vacation while eating clean and choosing healthy foods. The term "clean eating" can have a different definition depending on who you talk to, but for the purpose of this blog we're referring to eating whole foods that are as close to their natural state as possible. Skip the overprocessed stuff with all its additives, and go for the fresher foods with fewer ingredients and higher nutritional value. Vacation doesn't mean going so overboard on food and drink splurges that you come back from your vacation a few pounds heavier and feeling the weight of guilt on your shoulders because of your overindulgence.
Instead, vacation should focus on a balance of both celebration and health. Whether you're trying to maintain the good eating habits you started at home or you're using your vacation to jumpstart a healthier you, make every meal count. You absolutely can eat clean while you get your fill of the local flavor. You just have to be wise about your choices.
Let us help! Here are the 10 best ways to eat clean and feel good about your vacation, your eating and your health.
1. Have a zero-calorie drink policy during the day.
Don't consume unnecessary calories by drinking them. Whenever possible opt for zero-calorie beverages like water, unsweetened tea and naturally flavored waters. Keep yourself hydrated and feeling refreshed while knowing that what you're imbibing is totally clean and good for you.
2. Limit your alcohol consumption.
You're on vacation after all and you may want to sip an adult beverage every now and again. That's okay! Balance is key here. Limit yourself to one alcoholic drink per evening and make it one that is a lower calorie option like champagne, a vodka soda or a gin tonic. Stay away from sugary drinks or drink mixes that have a lot of other things added to them. To help guide you, choose from this list of the 10 lowest calorie cocktails you can drink right here.
3. Pack your own snacks.
Don't get caught feeling ravenous and leaving yourself vulnerable to poor food choices. Be proactive and prepared by packing your own healthy snacks while you're en route to your vacation destination and while you're there. Take control of the situation before the situation controls you. Pack smart, portable foods that are both satisfying and healthy. Sliced veggies, hummus, peanut and almond butters, protein bars, dried fruit, homemade trail mix, sliced cheese and whole grain crackers or rice cakes are excellent options.
4. Choose wisely when you eat out.
You don't have to scratch off going out to eat in restaurants if you're trying to maintain a clean diet, you just have to make smart choices when perusing the menu. Choose fresh seafood, vegetarian options and "lighter fare" menu selections whenever possible. Don't underestimate the satisfaction of a beautiful salad or fresh fruit plate. Choose grilled, broiled or baked options as opposed to fried or breaded menu items. Substitute a fresh vegetable for the french fries. Ask for calorie-laden dressings and sauces on the side. Maybe skip an entire dinner out and go enjoy an appetizer out instead.
5. Visit the local markets.
Experience the local flavor on an intimate level by shopping at the local farmers markets, fresh fish and seafood markets—and even the roadside stands you encounter along the way. Choose what's fresh and in season, and sample what the area's natural bounty has to offer.
6. Create your own meals.
It's nice to eat out, but it's also to have the convenience and comfort of staying in and having control of exactly what's going into your meal that evening. Bring home some of the fabulous finds from the farmers market or seafood market, and create your own meal in your beautiful and functional vacation rental kitchen. You'll have everything you need for a laid-back, relaxing evening in without the crowds, the wait, or the hassle. Sometimes something as simple and elegant as a cheese plate, a fresh assortment of fruit, loaves of crusty bread, and a healthy dip or two make for the perfect meal in without much fuss or preparation. Would you like some healthy meal inspiration? Check out our previous post on the 5 Healthiest Ways to Cook Fresh Fish and enjoy your very own catch of the day.
7. Pace yourself and your meals.
It's a good idea to eat heavier in the morning and at lunchtime, and then opt for lighter fare at dinnertime. Pace yourself and think about lightening up your meals as the day progresses to give your body time to process the food and burn more calories while you're out and about being more active throughout the day. Remember to bring your own snacks with you to hold you over until your next meal, while also keeping your energy levels steady and your hunger levels steady and satisfied.
8. Indulge strategically.
You're on vacation so you of course a little treat here and there is perfectly fine. Indulging is allowed, but overindulging is not in your best interests. Limit yourself to one sweet treat a day and keep the portion size small. Sample your favorite things and savor the flavors of every bite. Slow down and enjoy the experience without having to sacrifice too much.
9. Stay accountable.
Whether you're being accountable to yourself or to someone else during your vacation, it's always good to be mindful of your eating habits. Do you have to track every food item you're eating? No. Just remember that balance is key and staying focused on what you're putting into your mouth and into your body every day really matters. It's one of the keys to consistency and success.
10. Be open to trying new foods.
Maybe you don't make tofu at home. Perhaps you've never tried freshly caught fish. Maybe you don't even know what edamame is. Break through some barriers and give yourself permission to try new things this vacation. Be adventurous in your eating and maybe you'll surprise yourself with some new favorites. Local chefs have a way of elevating the local fare and perfectly pairing and preparing it. Take full advantage! Celebrate healthy eating and enjoy the abundance of the area. You deserve it!
Pair eating clean with staying active on vacation, and you're setting yourself up for healthy success. You'll feel great mentally, physically and emotionally. Enjoy!
Start planning your next Topsail Island vacation and experience the island flavors and local fare that will tempt your tastebuds but won't sabotage your healthy diet and lifestyle. Beach markets, farmers markets, boat-to-table seafood, fresh fruit and vegetables, and more are available to you. Add to that plenty of opportunities to walk on the beach and stay active during your Topsail vacation and you'll see why it's the perfect choice.
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