Weight gain during vacations is something most of us have experienced.
However, luxury cruises, with their four course meals and buffet lines, can prove challenging to even the most dedicated traveler.
There are, however, steps you can take to reduce your risk of weight gain, and even lose weight, while cruising.
Before the Cruise Plan on fitness.
Pack shoes and clothing appropriate for working out.
Look at the brochure or at the cruise ship's website to learn about the activities that are available to you and select ones that will enjoy.
Do the math.
Determine the number of calories you need to consume each day to maintain your weight.
Nutritional needs.
Establish your daily nutritional needs, such as your daily fruits and vegetables, grains, meats, etc.
Plan.
Determine what kind of foods you will be eating each day.
Keep portion control is mind.
The main downfall of so many while cruising is the buffet lines and large plates that lend to overeating.
Also establish ahead of time what foods you will be avoiding, such as fried or sugary foods, and resolve to stick to that plan.
On the Cruise Don't.
Skip.
Breakfast.
You may be someone who wants to get up early and spend as much time as possible at each port, or you may be inclined to want to sleep late each day.
However, it is important to make sure you get a healthy breakfast each morning, as it will give you the fuel you need to power through the day and reduce the likelihood of overeating at lunch.
Eat small meals, often.
Try to eat small meals and snack frequently throughout the day.
Grab bananas or other fruit off the buffet line and take with you in your travel backpack when you are touring.
Don't wait until you get hungry to eat, as it will increase the likelihood of overeating.
Plan meal times.
Plan to eat between activities in order to ensure you don't linger overly long by the buffet line.
Knowing you have an activity approaching will also reduce the chances you will overeat during the time you spend in the dining room.
Drink with caution or not at all.
Don't forget to include any alcohol consumption in your daily caloric intake, as a single shot of liquor can potentially contain up to 200 calories and cock wisely and try to balance your meals the rest of the day, and even the next, accordingly.
Rest.
You want to avoid getting too little or too much rest.
Oversleep can result in you feeling just as lethargic as not enough rest.
Know how much sleep you generally need to feel rested and aim for that number.
Between seven and eight hours is generally a good rule of thumb for adults.