How to stay on track with your weight loss whilst on an all inclusive holiday.
The main allure of an all inclusive holiday is the idea that you can go a week or two without having to worry about cooking or planning your meals. There are mountains of buffet food, unlimited alcohol and the option for any amount of snacks throughout the day. This, however, can cause a problem for all of you out there who are heading off on an all-inclusive holiday but want to stay on track with your weight loss goals. But it doesn’t have to be as hard as you think because by making a few smart, healthy choices, there is no reason you can’t enjoy all the perks of an all inclusive holiday without the pesky extra body baggage at the end! Here are 10 clever ways to help you with all your worries so that you don’t have to spend your holiday depriving yourself of tasty treats…
1. With temptation all around you, the first and most important thing is to make clever choices. All inclusive holidays usually consist of a very immense and enticing buffet, which could leave you feeling like you have no other choice but to try it all. However, by making a few clever choices such as opting for a smaller plate for your meals, you can enforce portion control and trick your body into thinking you’ve eaten more. It is recommended that you use the size of your clenched fist as a measurement for carbs and the size of your palm for protein. And for those pesky fats, use your knuckle to the top of your thumb as measurement.
2. Being healthy AND happy is all about balance, which is why if you know you will be gorging on a high-cal 3 course meal for dinner, opt for a smaller lunch. And the same goes for lunch, if you want to treat yourself to a long, leisurely lunch then aim to have a smaller dinner. Do remember not to skip meals though, as it is not only affects your mood but will end up making you eat more when you do eventually eat.
3. Snacking on holiday is another danger area if you want to stay on the health track. Avoid snacking on fatty chips and salty peanuts (which have 150 cal in a small handful!) Instead steer towards unsalted nuts, seeds and olives because they are not only healthier, but will keep you from feeling peckish between meals.
4. They do say breakfast is the most important meal of the day…Just because you are on holiday does not give you free reign to scoff on sausages and hash browns, as these sorts of food will leave you feeling greasy and groggy all morning! Also, don’t assume the continental breakfast is any better, one all-butter croissant has 225 calories and 13.5g of fat without the added butter and jam! As a healthy alternative, opt for some early morning protein, like boiled or scrambled eggs to fill you up and keep away those mid-morning cravings!
5. The majority of buffets, especially abroad, offer a wide variety of locally sourced seafood. Don’t be afraid to try more unusual fish such as crab, mussels and swordfish because by choosing something you don’t normally have at home, it feels more like a treat whilst still being super healthy. It is also well known that oily fish such as salmon and tuna are particularly good for you due to their high omega-3 content, which will not only keep your skin hydrated but also encourages a healthy digestion.
6. Also make sure to keep a watch out for certain types of food, which you should avoid. Pass up anything in creamy sauces or with pastry and definitely anything described as being pan fried, roasted or sautéed because they will have been cooked in a lot of oil. Salad bars also look innocent but many buffet salad options are swimming in some form of fatty dressing or sauce. So don’t be afraid to request grilled alternatives and for sauces and dressings on the side for a healthier alternative!
8. There’s nothing better than a nice cold ice cream on holiday…except when you realise how many calories they contain! An average ice cream cone contains around 280 calories and 6g of fat! However, if you really cant resist, treat yourself to ice creams such as a Solero Exotic for only 115 cal or a Mini Milk, which only contains 30 calories for a really low-fat option.
9. Eating late is common on holiday, so ignore the bread basket and anything carb related in the evening and instead base evening meals around protein such as grilled meat and fish with vegetables and salad. However, if you really can’t stop thinking about pasta or chips, have them at lunchtime so you have more of the day for your body to work them off.
10. Alcohol is a given on holiday, especially on all-inclusive holidays. But the majority of your favourite holiday drinks are rife with calories and could mess with your weight loss goals! One trick is to make your drinks last longer by adding soda to wine and diet lemonade to lager so you can balance out the calories. Also, try spirits with low-calories mixers, as you won’t be heading to the bar as often and you’ll also drink less. Another trick is to alternate alcoholic drinks with water to prevent a hangover and also keep you hydrated throughout the day.
11. And most importantly, make sure to not be too hard on yourself, you are on holiday after all! Banning certain food and drinks can be counterproductive as it can lead to cravings and put a dampener on your holiday, which is why by making smart, small alternatives you can feel happy in the knowledge you are on the health track but not letting it take over. So if you really want an ice cream or a cocktail, then enjoy it rather than feeling like you’re giving in because you can make allowances for it when choosing your next meal so you’re still in control!