How to Maintain Your Weight While on Vacation

Summer vacation-- it's a time to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Unfortunately it is also a time where you're at risk to gain weight. Summer vacations lack the structure of a normal work day, and all of that unwinding can be pretty cruel to the waistline. Maybe you spent all spring trying to lose weight to look sexy in that bathing suit. Do you really want to put all of that hard work to waste? But you are on vacation after all--do you want to hit the gym twice a day or pass up all of those scrumptious desserts? It can be quite a dilemma. There are a few ways to maintain your weight while on vacation without sacrificing the good times and good food.

Here are some simple tips to help you maintain your weight while on vacation.

Go easy on the Margaritas. Margaritas, Mudslides, Long Island Iced Teas, and Piña Coladas are popular summer vacation drinks, but they can contain around 700 calories each. One or two of these tasty drinks are not going to make you gain weight, but if you indulge in 2 or 3 a day, you'll surely pack on the pounds. Opt for a light beer or a vodka and water instead.

Drink Water. Water is especially important while on vacation. If you're on the beach or out enjoying the sun water will not only keep you hydrated, but it will keep you full as well (and less likely to pick out at the pool's snack bar).

Say no to the bread basket before dinner. No one wants to cook dinner while on vacation. That's what restaurants are for, right? Most restaurants offer a tasty bread medley before the main course. Two slices of bread before dinner every night, could quickly add up to an extra 2000 calories a week. To avoid the temptation, tell the waiter 'no thank you' before he sets the bread basket on the table. This way, you'll have room for dessert.

Walk. You don't have to engage in a 10 mile hike every day, but move a little. Get up off of that lounge chair and walk the beach. Walk around the neighborhood. Enjoy the nice weather and the nice scenery.

Engage in fun physical activities. Swim. Play volleyball. Throw a football. Golf (and leave the cart behind). A workout doesn't have to feel like a workout. Summer is a time for fun, so grab your family or friends and get a game going.