Summer is the time for enjoying more sun and fun with friends and family. For many people, vacation can also be a challenging time to stay healthy. Social gatherings and trips are often centered on not-so-healthful food options. However, just as the summer brings more options when it comes to activities and your wardrobe, there is also a great variety of fruits and vegetables that can be enjoyed in abundance. Melons, cherries, berries, cucumbers, corn, squash, and tomatoes are all in season to enjoy.
Moderation, variety, and enjoying the summer’s bounty of fruits and vegetables are key to enjoying eating and staying healthy on vacation.
Healthy vacation ideas
1. Surf for restaurants
Check out your hotel’s website. There is usually an “Area Guide” or “Area Information” page that will list local restaurants with links that will take you directly to them. You can then see which restaurant has more healthy options available.
2. Nourish your body on the concourse
More healthy foods are becoming available in airport terminals today. You can pick up fresh produce with either a side of hummus or unsweetened yogurt at most a la carts. Also, some shops even have salad bars, whole-grain sandwiches and healthful wraps available.
3. Take the easy path for snacks
Although some hotel rooms provide an urban kitchen and others still offer continental breakfast, many still do not. Stopping by the grocery store for quick snacks will save your wallet and provide nutrients throughout the day. Some fruit and vegetables do not require refrigeration, and instant oatmeal is an easy breakfast that only needs boiling water from the coffee pot.
4. Splurge at the local farmers’ market
By going to the local farmers’ market you can take in the culture and also the people of the community. It’s also a great way to embrace locally made soaps, wine, chocolate, cheese, sauces, jewelry and other unique products made with fresh ingredients or materials!
5. Keep active
We get it, it’s the first vacation to the coast you’ve taken in years and bringing your workout shoes was the last thing on your mind. You don’t need them! Settle for walking a large chunk of steps each day and go on a bike ride down the beach. Stay active with the family by swimming with the little ones and bonding over who can tread water the longest.
6. Stay hydrated
A big mistake tourists make is being out in the sun without enough H2O. Drink water when you’re not savoring a pina colada. Try citrus-infused water. It’s festive, and adding citrus gives your drink vitamins that can be depleted by alcohol and sun rays.
7. Choose more vegetables
At some restaurants, you can order vegetables in place of a second side; this is a great way to get vitamins, minerals and fiber. No fatigue urging you back to the hotel, more energy for fun activities!
For more recipes, visit the Kendall Reagan Nutrition Center’s website, as well as the College of Health and Human Sciences Pinterest board.
