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November 17, 2003
Santa Cruz, Calif.—Memorial Day is the last day of the month.
Traditionally this day marks the beginning of the summer travel season in
the U.S. With the Centers for Disease Control reporting that nearly two
thirds of Americans are overweight or obese, this season is likely to find
more travelers packing more pounds than ever.
Many people even expect to gain weight while traveling, not because they
want to but because they have no guidance on how to prevent it. To help your
readers avoid returning home heavier than when they left -- perhaps even
lighter than when they left -- Dr. Terry Riley offers these five simple
tips.
1. Eat
While you may not expect to find "eat" as a dieting tip, it
is essential to any viable weight-loss or weight-maintenance program. While
traveling to your destination, you may go for many hours without the
opportunity to find food. Not good. Putting your body in this state of
deprivation will cause it to conserve rather than burn fat, and it will make
you hungry--"famished" is the word you'll probably use--causing you to
overeat as soon as you get the chance. If you will be spending many hours in
transit, take along some healthful snacks to keep your body satiated.
2. Keep hydrated
Low humidity in airplane passenger compartments
pulls moisture from your skin, and high temperatures at your destination can
cause your body to perspire. Both consequences redirect water that your
digestive system needs to function efficiently. Moreover, a stomach that is
filled--even with just water--can lessen the sense of hunger and help
prevent you from overeating. So drink plenty of water while on your way to
your destination and while you are there as well.
3. Limit caffeine and alcohol
Alcohol and caffeine can act as
diuretics--not the effect you are seeking when trying to keep yourself
hydrated.
4. Walk
Whenever possible, avoid using trams, moving sidewalks,
people movers, escalators, elevators or other mechanical conveyances. Take a
hike rather than a drive. Walk to the beach rather than hopping on a
shuttle. Try to get in some additional time moving rather than sitting and
"vegging out." You can easily burn a few extra hundred Calories a day just
by walking.
5. Enjoy yourself
You're on vacation. It's time to unwind and enjoy
yourself. Trying to adhere to a strict routine can get in the way of that
enjoyment. Instead follow the principle of moderation. Sample smaller
portions of a variety of foods, and get out and see the sights.
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