- You need to set some guidelines in advance for what you’ll eat and what you won’t.
- The guilt people feel about eating ruins the pleasure.
- Eat like the locals.
- On cruises, skip the buffets and eat fish early for the freshest options.
1. It Costs Too Much
Cost is a major factor in people’s food choices. Fast food is the cheapest option, and buying organic produce and meat is generally the most expensive. In the long run though, eating healthy food can potentially save you a fortune in medical expenses down the line.2. I Don’t Have Time
I totally understand that it takes a lot of time and effort to cook and prepare healthy meals when you’re away from home, but the benefits are dramatic. You can usually save money in the process, since eating out can be very expensive.Go to a grocery store and make a meal from fruits, veggies, cheeses, nuts or sandwiches. It’s quick, easy and portable.
Skip greasy foods, like burger and fries, when you’re looking for a quick bite. Search for healthier alternatives, or you’re going to feel like crap all the time.
3. I’ve Got To Try Everything
In some countries, like France or Italy, eating can be some of the most enjoyable aspects of the trip. But don’t make it all about the food. Local flavor is not just confined to the food. Ask locals for recommendations and suggestions for more than just places to eat.You need to set some guidelines for what you’ll eat and what you won’t. For example, the bread plate - you can get that anywhere - skip it!
Eat the fruits and vegetables first, and make sure you have them in every meal. Get those in, and then you aren’t so hungry for that main course.
When we’re traveling, we tend to want to go somewhere for every single meal. You don’t need to do that.Whenever possible, stay at places that serve breakfast. Always eat breakfast, so you start the day with energy and can take advantage of everything that comes up.
Take pictures of menus and your food (Foodspotting is a great place to share these) if you want or need to remember them. You can also see how much you really are eating.
Guilt, Guilt, Guilt
The guilt people feel about eating ruins the pleasure. You’re on vacation, and we want you to enjoy it. if you want to have something extra like an appetizer or a dessert, split it!Some people do drink more on vacation, but it does not mean that has to be you. If you’re in a place that’s famous for its wine, we want you to enjoy it, and savor that time. Don’t feel badly that you’re enjoying the great wine in France - that’s a waste of a great experience!
Eat Like The Locals
I always encourage people to try new foods. Eat what the locals eat. You’ll immerse yourself in the culture, and it’s probably healthier, too. In other countries, portion sizes are more appropriate than they are in the US.Other countries also tend to eat less processed foods. Stay away from the packages hidden with large amounts of sugar, saturated fats, trans fats and sodium.
5 Tips For Cruise Eating
I’ve devoted this section to the infamous vacation that often destroys healthy eating. Everyone who has ever been on a cruise, or has looked into taking one, knows that food is available constantly.1. Skip the buffets. Lots of the food on the buffet is fried, and it's food you can get back at home anyway. Fried foods are full of extra calories that you really don't need.
2. Do not eat at all hours of the day or night or every time a meal is offered. Decide that you will have 3 meals a day and stick to your plan. From 2 other fitness experts, Becky Williamson and Fitz, do NOT eat 3 large restaurant meals each day. Plan for at least 1 of your meals to be a lighter meal (e.g., soup and salad for dinner, a shared sandwich and piece of fresh fruit for lunch).
3. For the freshest options, eat fish and seafood early on the trip unless you are on a small private cruise or sailing vacation where seafood is being caught daily.
4. Do not ever order multiple desserts of entrees. It’s not worth it to take those extra pounds home with you as a souvenir of your trip.
5. Make sure to eat off the boat sometimes to experience authentic local cuisines.
The purpose of a vacation is pleasure, and eating can be a great pleasure. You can enjoy everything, in small quantities. Just make sure not to indulge too much, and skip those things you can have at home!
