As the sun begins to peek out from behind the winter clouds, we find ourselves eagerly packing our bags for that much-anticipated spring break trip. But, amidst the excitement of planning and packing, it's crucial to remember that we keep this excitement going with Open Eating and great nutrition. Yes, we're talking about ensuring you remain energized, hydrated, and satiated during your travels so that you can fully enjoy your vacation instead of grappling with dehydration or hunger pangs while exploring a new city or lounging by the beach. With these top 5 nutritional tips at your fingertips this spring break season, you're all set to do just that!
Carry a Reusable Water Bottle:
This is where tip number one comes in handy - carry along a reusable water bottle! It's not only an earth-friendly measure but also an economical one since it eliminates the need for purchasing single-use plastic bottles throughout your journey. Get one that packs well... ideal for both air and road travel.
Remember to empty it before passing through airport security; refill at a hydration station near your boarding gate
Pack Pre-Balanced Snacks:
Traveling means you're more active. Thinking ahead in terms of nutrition between main meals when on holiday can indeed be challenging. That brings us to tip two-pack balanced snacks! Instead of reaching for processed foods due to unpredictable mealtimes on vacation days, come prepared with wholesome snack alternatives. This helps to prevent feelings of hunger and impulsive unhealthy purchases on the go.
Focus on snacks rich in protein and fiber for satiety duration... Some options include protein bars, fruits or vegetables, nuts or seeds, dried edamame/chickpeas, snack crackers & cheese.
Whole fruits versus juices – bananas are always great go-to snack options; protein-rich bites such as nuts and seeds do wonders at keeping those mid-day or late-night stomach growls quietly even taking some dried vegetables would make for much healthier choices than generic chips.
Stay Hydrated While Traveling:
It's one thing to BRING the water bottle... it's another to drink from it and to supplement with electrolytes and nutrients that water is designed to transport to your cells for giving you energy and recovery.
Dehydration is one of the most common issues that cramp our vacations as travelers. Do away with the common misconception that electrolyte replenishment comes only from sports drinks; there are plenty of healthier options. Bananas, nuts, and hummus are great electrolyte-packed travel snacks!
Keep Meal Routines Steady:
Now comes an aspect we all look forward to when visiting new places - exploring local food scenes and trying out unique delicacies! But unfamiliar cuisines can at times be overwhelming resulting in unregulated meal routines or unwanted hindrances such as gastrointestinal distress. Therefore, it's recommended that you practice portion control when dining out during your travels - share endlessly fascinating yet exorbitant entrees with your travel companions. Here are some great tips to keep it new and exciting, but also consistent enough to support your body:
- Enjoy dining out but leverage simple strategies to maintain nutrition. Incorporate all food groups where possible – fruits/vegetables for fiber intake; and proteins/dairy for enhanced satiety.
- Practice portion control when dining out–split entrees with traveling companions.
- Use local facilities(weather permitting) to cook meals similar to how you do at home.
- Attempt to incorporate your regular diet norms where possible to keep nutrition in check - proteins for satiety (think lentils if you are vegetarian or eggs otherwise), whole grains for fiber intake (whole grain sandwiches can be found all over!).
Plan Ahead for Your Return Home:
Lastly but indeed significantly is planning for the return home. Even after an unforgettable spring break vacation is over, navigating an empty fridge can pose trouble if you haven't prepared well beforehand.
Use online shopping to pre-order items and have them ready upon arrival at home– allowing the smooth transition from holiday relaxation back into routine life without any nutritional hiccups! A well-stocked pantry waiting upon return prevents tired just-got-back-from-vacation shopping trips and the temptation of ordering take-out just because there's nothing immediately ready-to-eat home.
There you have it folks - five easy-to-implement hacks guaranteed to safeguard your nutritional health as you embark upon your spring break voyages. And if you're excited to put these tips into practice, why not start with the tip about packing healthy snacks right away?! Then you can learn what you like best and have it all ready! Be sure to pair fiber and proteins to keep you full longer. Figure out your taste preferences... and make this the best vacation ever!