Daily Loaf

Staying on track with your diet can be challenging enough during the busy work week, but it is especially challenging when you are out of your normal routine.  We travel for many reasons, for business, relaxation and the occasional visit to friends and family in need.  All occasions many times can be reasons to let your diet slide, but there is no need to!  By letting your diet slide you run the risk of gaining 5 even 10 pounds, which sets you back tremendously on your accomplishments and can be damaging to your will and self-esteem.   In lieu of starting over with your diet accomplishments follow these simple tips and return home feeling positive about your meal choices.

Airports can be filled with fast high calorie/fat food so plan ahead and make smart choices.  Eating a nutritious meal prior to your departure will delay your need to eat in the airport.  Bring smart snacks with you to take on the plane such as fresh fruit, nuts, and protein bars to appease your cravings.  While on the plane take advantage of the free beverage if applicable and order an orange juice (make sure your choice is 100% juice).  Orange juice is filled with vitamin C, calcium and magnesium to keep your energy flowing and your immune system ready for travel.  Make sure to drink plenty of water as well during your flight to stay hydrated.  During your layover, look for a smoothie stand where you can add more antioxidant rich fruits and protein, or a deli where you can order a healthy salad or wrap.  Remember to watch the ingredients for calorie content, ask for light dressing on the side, and whole grain bread or a tortilla for your sandwich.  Many sit down restaurants offer salads and soup selections as well.  Ask your server to keep your water glass filled and try fresh lemon to assist in hydration and digestion. 

Once you reach your destination scope out your dining options ahead of time and ask the locals or your hotel staff for recommendations on healthy dining options.  A trip to the local market to fill up on snacks for your room is highly recommended.  Fruit, nuts, whole grain crackers, trail mix and low calorie protein bars can all be kept in your room.  If you have a mini fridge you will be able to stock up on yogurts, juice string cheese, premade salads and your dinner leftovers.  Having these items with you will eliminate spoiling all your daily caloric needs on a heavy breakfast and will assist in speeding up your metabolism throughout the day.  When dining out look for baked and broiled options, ask for your salad dressing on the side, and ask for a box to place half of your meal in a to go box ahead of time. 

By following all of these tips and making smart choices you can indulge in that glass of wine or low calorie dessert, enjoy your trip and return feeling good about your choices.

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