Are you planning for the holidays but worried about your diet? 

Vacation, for many of us, is the time to relax, explore, visit friends or relatives, and eat good food. But this break from routine can pose a challenge to the diet. 

Here are a few tips to assist you with a healthy vacation:

  • If you can't avoid outside food, then take care of what healthy options are available and the portion size: Cut your portions while eating in restaurants. Choose an appetizer as your main course. Split a dish with your travel companion, otherwise eat half.
  • Pack your bag with healthy snacks: Apples, almonds, walnuts, makhaney [fox nuts], chane [chickpea], sprouts, peanuts, low-calorie protein bars made at home etc. Snacking in small quantities between meals will help you not overeat at mealtime.
  • At restaurants, squeeze a lemon in water instead of soda: Drink alcohol in moderation and avoid sugary beverages. You can still drink, but try some moderate quantity beer or a glass of red wine.
  • Prefer green salad and ask for dressing on the side: Eat sensibly and do not overeat. Enjoy tandoori roti, sabzi, curd instead of paneer, dal or naan etc. Have vegetable sandwiches instead of burgers. Stay away from chips & cookies – these are the worst.
  • Have dessert but share it: Satisfy your dessert craving with small bites or share t with one or more partners.

Sample Meal Plan

Have small frequent meals. Do not starve in between; otherwise, you will end up indulging in a heavy meal.

  • Early morning: Green tea/lemon water / normal water plus 5 almonds/walnuts.   
  • After 30 minutes: Fruits like melons, litchis, mangoes.
  • Breakfast: Protein-rich, use seasonally available items.
  • Mid meals (Mid morning / evening): Green tea / fruits / nuts / roasted chana / sprouts / peanuts.
  • Lunch / Dinner: Finish salad first; then order your meal with less salt. Avoid thick gravies.

Drink lots of water. Never skip breakfast. Do not leave your diet at home. Plan and enjoy your travel!

Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered  a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.