One of my biggest fears used to be “How am I going to stay healthy while traveling?” Immediately when you think “vacation” you think of two things: 1. I have to start dieting and working out now to look good on vacation 2. I can’t wait to relax and indulge when I get there aka eat whatever I please. What people don’t realize is that this is basically the same thing as dieting and then binging which is typically referred to as “yo-yo dieting”. The reason restrictive diets don’t work are because they aren’t sustainable long-term and you are extremely unhappy while doing them. My health coaching programs help my clients develop a better relationship with food and to find the right healthy lifestyle and balance that works for them and also makes them happy.
The first step to staying healthy when traveling or heading to vacation is being prepared. I never travel to the airport without a bag full of my favorite healthy snacks. The reason I do this is:
1. You never know what you’re getting when you get to the airport, train station, bus stop, etc.
2. Most modes of transportation don’t typically offer healthy options/you have to pay extra for them now so you’re better off bringing food that will satisfy you. This will also help you to make better decisions at your next meal when you’ve finally landed.
3. It’s always good to have healthy “bridge” snacks in your hotel/Airbnb to hold you over until your next meal. (A “bridge” snack is a snack that is nutritious and will hold you over until you get to your next meal.)
My favorite snacks include:
1. Dried Mangos – Click here for one of my favorite brands. They are organic and have no added sugar and sulfur. These are perfect for a quick snack or if you’re craving something sweet. Mangos contain vitamins A + C as well as tons of fiber. This makes it great for building up your immune system, promoting healthy vision, and aiding in digestion. *Note: While dried mangos are healthy, these should be eaten in moderation. Like most fruit, they are high in natural sugar and carbs so read the portion size!
2. Raw Cashews – Click here for raw cashews that I love. I’m a big proponent for all types of raw nuts as they are high in protein and healthy fats and keep you satisfied – the perfect “bridge” snack. I always bring a big bag of these when I travel to eat on-the-go or as a quick snack. If you prefer a trail mix, click here for my recipe (which only takes 20-25 minutes to make!)
3. Almond Butter Packets – Click here for the packets I typically travel with. These are perfect to eat alone or pairing with fresh fruit or veggies. Don’t have time to stop for breakfast, but you have a banana? If you have the packet, you can just squeeze and bite and be on your way.
4. Energy Bites/Healthy Bars – Since I’ve gotten into making energy balls, I’ve essentially replaced my bars with them. 1. I know they are healthier due to minimal ingredients and low sugar. Click here to see some of my recipes to make your own at home. All you need is a high powered blender or food processor 🙂
For when you don’t have the time to make energy balls, you’ll want to have a bar on hand. My favorites are:
*Favorite Flavors: Coconut + Granola, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip
*Favorite Flavor: Chocolate Sea Salt
*Favorite Flavors: Chocolate, Oatmeal
I like these bars because they are all made from real ingredients so I know what I’m putting into my body. While they are all a little higher in sugar then I would like, I may use them as a meal replacement for breakfast (especially when you’re in a place where you don’t have very healthy options) or when going on a long hike/after doing a strenuous workout. Again, maybe you just don’t have the time and need something to get you to your next meal – this will work. However, you don’t want to have bars as a everyday staple in your diet. Real food is always going to be better for your body than something that comes out of a package.
In conclusion, being prepared with healthy snacks is key to making healthier decisions while traveling or being on vacation. If you’re someone that is tired of “yo-yo dieting” and wants to be able to enjoy life and food without the guilt, please click here for a free health consultation today. Happy Monday, loves and happy traveling!
