Guide to a Healthy Vacation

Where are you going on vacation? I love summer because it’s a chance to spend time with family and friends, and, with kids on summer break, it’s a perfect excuse to go on a summer vacation! Unfortunately, we also tend to get off schedule, including our diet and exercise regime. I try to take it one day at a time, squeezing in fitness where I can and aim to make healthful, balanced food choices.

Vacations can be challenging, but with the right tools and pre-planning, there is no excuse not to have a fun, relaxing, and healthy getaway!

The Long Road Ahead

Take mini breaks on your next road trip to stretch and move around to help keep your energy up and recharge your muscles. You can do the same thing on the airplane by simply walking up and down the aisle a few times. This will help to keep your circulation and digestive system moving properly too!

“Active”ities

Exercise on vacation by incorporating “active”ities into your itinerary. Staying active will increase energy and help with jetlag recovery. Some great ways to stay active are to go for a sunrise jog, participate in group fitness classes, or get the family together and go for a midday snorkel!

Plan Ahead

Pack healthful snacks to have on hand in the car or flight. Snacks that contain dietary fiber will help increase satiety to help keep you fuller longer. I love almonds (get the tin that perfectly holds an ounce-sized handful of almonds) and KIND bars because they are easy foods to pack and are mess-free!

Keep Things Moving

Your digestive system can get out of whack while traveling. And no one wants their trip to be ruined because of digestive issues. For digestive and immune system health, I take a probiotic every day. I use Phillips Colon Health (and I’m a consultant to Bayer) because it has three strains of the most clinically studied probiotic bacteria, while most brands only have one. It’s great for travel in that it doesn’t require refrigeration, so it's easy to take daily, even while on the go.

So next time you go on vacation, think of these tips as your mini guide book on how to have a healthy getaway. Remember that balance is key, and indulgence in unfamiliar foods is a must—in moderation!