It's vacation season!! We all look forward to getting away for some adventure or much needed R & R, but it can throw a serious wrench into your healthy living plans. Here are a few tips on how to stay on track while still enjoying your vacation:

1. Cook your own food - I know, part of the fun of traveling is trying new restaurants and cultures. We love that part too, but we use the 80/20 rule on our vacations as much as at home. Try renting a place that has a kitchen, or at least a microwave and refrigerator. This will save you tons of calories and money! Find a local store and get supplies for breakfast, lunch and snacks. Be sure to pack some kind of cooler (ours is collapsable) so that you can take healthy stuff with you as you explore during the day. Go ahead and find a unique spot for dinner. This way you're eating way less expensive, calorie dense foods most of the day and you're still able to experience your destination at night.

2. Share lots of plates - When you're somewhere new, you might be tempted to get an appetizer, entree and dessert just because the all are so unique. Try sharing a couple of smaller plates with your dinning partners. You'll be able to taste many different items without overeating. The other good thing about having a kitchen where you stay, is that you can eat the rest for lunch tomorrow.

3. Keep it clean - Just because there is a smothered burrito on the menu and it's their house specialty, does not mean you need to eat it. Stick to your macro plan by choosing wisely (see Part. 1). If you're near the ocean, choose the catch of the day. Fish is full of Omega-3 fatty acids, great lean protein and it's much better directly from the source. If you're not where fresh veggies are safe to eat, don't be afraid of the cooked veggies, just watch the sauce. 

4. Just say no to the goodies - Amusement parks are the hardest for this one, but beach towns and resorts are also full of ice cream stores, bakeries, street vendors and the like. We all love a treat, but try to pick one very special day or place and make that your one and only. When you do decide to have that indulgence, ENJOY IT!! Do not feel guilty afterward. You only get one life and this vacation my not happen again. Share an ice cream cone with your kids. Giggle as it drips everywhere and makes a huge mess. Enjoy their smiles and laughter. Do it one time and it will be an incredible memory. Do it everyday and you will come home filled with regret and guilt.

Travel safely, find some adventure and joy in your travels and be sure to get right back in the saddle when you get home. Do it because you want to be healthy, not to make up for whatever bad choices you made on vacation. Bon Voyage!!!