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Weight and Vacation

May 30, 2018

 


 

I have a client; I’ll call him “Joe”.  Joe lost over 30 pounds and has kept it off for close to 3 years. In the last few months he’s been negotiating with 5 pounds that crept back on and won’t budge. And then he went on vacation . . .

 

Now what did most of you think just then?

 

“Everyone gains on vacation!”

“He definitely came back weighing more”

 

Nope.

 

Joe came back at his goal weight and had a fabulous time on his trip.

 

Huh!?

 

I have seen this time and time again.

Particularly on European vacations.

And there are a number of reasons why:

 

No Snacking (Especially Night Nibbling)

 

There often isn’t a kitchen in a hotel room, so food is less available then at home (thank you, environmental control!). Also, you are likely doing enjoyable things in the day—meeting with friends or family, seeing sights, exploring the culture. You tend to only eat at mealtimes. The distraction of the attractions is enough to keep your mind off food until then.

 

Walking Everywhere

 

It’s fun to walk in a new place. It’s a great way to get to know the area and learn about the people and places as you pass them by close up. We may use public transportation (which usually involves more walking than when using cars) and there’s lots of walking in gardens and museums. This is not sweaty exercise but more of a constant movement that really makes a difference to your calorie burn all day long.

 

Fresh Whole Foods

 

In general, they do food different in other countries (other than America). Don’t get me started on agriculture practices. Suffice it to say the bio diverse, locally grown, seasonal, fresh whole food on offer is good stuff. Very fresh food often tastes better making for a satisfying eating experience. Tastes may be new and interesting so a little goes a longer way. Also, generally, portions abroad are smaller than at home—and we don’t seem to miss a thing.

 

New/Interesting Surroundings

 

Learning new things, discovering unknown places, experiencing beauty all serve to engage the senses, leaving you filled.  Satisfied.  Your brain is working hard to process it all and you are content with your state—not bored or searching. Food can take its proper place in your day—not center stage.

 

No Stress

 

This is a biggie. Taking time off from work, routine and increased cortisol allows inflammation to calm down, sleep to regulate and blood glucose levels to be lowered. Relaxation helps to balance our moods and gives us some perspective. All of which is necessary for a healthy, centered life.

 

 

So go on vacation as often as you can, but in the meantime bring a little vacation home. Have fewer mindless snacks, walk more, choose whole foods rather than processed when possible, balance any stress with regular meditation or nature breaks. Make sure your brain and heart are stimulated on a daily basis and take in some beauty each day. Not only is it good for your being, its good for your waistline.