Vacation Detox
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I love the fun and relaxation of a vacation but always find myself dreading to step on the scale when I return. We have a bittersweet relationship, my scale and I. It doesn’t lie to me. Indulging in the good food and drinks on my trip comes with a price. I find that most of my vacations turn out to be “five pound vacations.”
This leaves me with two options, either to be very disciplined while away or accept that I need to work a little harder to shed the extra “vacation weight” when I return. I usually do the latter. I call it my vacation detox.
I find that it takes me several days to a week to break the habit of eating and drinking like I am on vacation. Especially if it is someplace that is known for incredible restaurants or fine wine.
My perfect lunch is fresh bread, assorted cheeses, fancy crackers, fruit and a bottle of wine that I can enjoy outdoors on a beautiful sunny day. My favorite dinner involves any great Italian restaurant with homemade pasta, warm bread with dipping oil, a bold red wine and a chocolate, sinful dessert. That is probably why I gain the weight.
When you are away from home, you typically eat out more than make your own food. Your meals are restaurant portions and you want to try the fancy desserts. After all, you are only visiting.
I have found if I have sugar, it will take me several days without it before I stop craving it. Growing up, our family typically had dinner then dessert. To this day, I continue to have a sweet tooth but do my best to resist it.
Many people continue to work out while on vacation. Sometimes my intentions are good but ultimately, I usually find myself spending my time doing other things. I would rather take a walk or a hike to explore a new place then wake up early and find the hotel fitness center. I applaud people who do this but I am not one of them.
So my workouts double up when I return home. I give a little more and push a little harder. As a result, it doesn’t take long to get back to the pre-vacation body.
Edited by Malu Banuelos
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