Keep in mind, that when you're going on vacation the last thing you want to do is set a weight-loss goal. The point is to relax and, contrary to popular belief, you can do that while managing your progress!
Here are a few strategies to enjoy yourself without demolishing your goals:
Aim To Maintain! You're on vacation to relax, not to drop a few pounds! If you've been dieting down, a good strategy it to head back up to your maintenance calories for the time being and give yourself a diet break. Maintenance calories will put you in a position to have a little more food while remaining weight stable. If you estimate your maintenance and start to see the scale creep up or notice your clothes feeling a bit tight, skip a snack or two and see what happens.
Stick To The Basics! Remember: not every meal needs to be a treat. If you stick to the basics of a protein, a starch and a fruit or veggie for most meals you won't stray to far from your diet and you can save the extra calories for special dinners or desserts along the way!
It's All About Compromise! It doesn't need to be all or nothing. Often times when we've spent a decent amount of time in a deficit we get a little food focused which can lead to over indulging. If you find yourself stuck in this mindset, step back and remind yourself: You're vacation isn't just about eating. Enjoy your meals, but give yourself some options on how to reign it in like getting the dish you really want and splitting it to save half for later or chowing down on a simple salad for lunch so you can dig into that cheesecake at dinner. There are plenty of ways to have your cake and eat it too!
Plan Active Activities! Again, vacation doesn't need to be all about the food. Plan some activities like hiking, biking, or kayaking or make a deal with yourself to get in a few walks after each meal. It can be a great way to hang out with others while burning a few extra calories to offset the indulgences.
All in all, enjoy yourself!
A day or two going overboard won't wreck your progress, but a week or two will. Come up with a plan or a few strategies before you head out and you'll be well equipped to treat yourself without defeating yourself!
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