Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!  

 

With warm temperatures and fun summer activities that bring on the sweat, staying hydrated is more important than ever. But, how much do you actually need? Divide your weight in half and that’s about how many ounces of fluids you need in a given day. If you’re an avid exerciser, spending long periods of time outside (I’m talking to you beach bums!), frequently taking airplane rides, or living in a particularly dry climate, you may need even more. I suggest picking up a reusable water bottle and filling it with cold water first thing in the morning. Strive to drink and refill the bottle at least a few times a day.

Have a snack stash handy.

Have a snack stash handy.

Nothing can ruin a good time like hunger pangs. Keep easily portable snacks on hand in your car, purse, or book bag so you can strategically infuse energy into your day whenever needed. I love packing heart-healthy almonds, peanuts, or sunflower seeds in portion-controlled containers. Not only are they loaded with nutrients like protein, fiber and antioxidants, but they keep your energy level on an even keel so you can power through until mealtime. If you’re looking for other easy-to-pack items, try my Crunchy Spiced Chickpeas or Tasty Trail Mix.

Pack Produce

Pack produce.

 

When it’s time to hit the beach, make sure you’re prepared with a cooler full of juicy produce like cherry tomatoes, grapes, melon, plums, berries, and peaches. Complete with water for hydration, as well as skin-enhancing antioxidants, these portable fruits and veggies make a refreshing no-fuss treat. For extra staying power, pair produce with portable protein like hummus cups, Greek yogurt and cheese sticks.

Splurge strategically

Splurge strategically.

 

Vacationing is about exploring a new place, trying new things, and taking in the atmosphere. You can (and should) let yourself enjoy one ‘cheat’ food each day. Be strategic and pick something that is unique to the area you are visiting. Maine Lobster with butter? Key Lime Pie? Boardwalk Taffy? Whatever you choose, keep the portion relatively controlled, and eat slowly so you can enjoy every delicious bite and truly savor the flavor

Be Cocktail Conscious

Be cocktail conscious.

Vacation often means being liberal on the alcohol. But before one fruity drink becomes several sugarific calorie-bombs (and the not-so-healthy snacks that come along with it), decide to sip smart instead. Stick to low-calorie options whenever possible (unless you decide to make it your daily splurge). A glass of wine or champagne comes to about 120 calories. A light beer or a shot of liquor mixed with club soda and a splash of fruit juice are each about 100 calories.

If you’re playing bartender in your own backyard give my Berkshire Iced Tea or Skinny Piña Colada a try.

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

 

With warm temperatures and fun summer activities that bring on the sweat, staying hydrated is more important than ever. But, how much do you actually need? Divide your weight in half and that’s about how many ounces of fluids you need in a given day. If you’re an avid exerciser, spending long periods of time outside (I’m talking to you beach bums!), frequently taking airplane rides, or living in a particularly dry climate, you may need even more. I suggest picking up a reusable water bottle and filling it with cold water first thing in the morning. Strive to drink and refill the bottle at least a few times a day.