Cabins, Camping, & Calories. Oh My!
By: Kaitlyn B., Lifestyle Consultant, Registered Dietitian, Woodbury

The time has come for us Minnesotans and Wisconsinites to break our cabin fevers. The few months we have of warm weather, comes with many weekends filled with summer activities. Whether you are heading to the cabin, going camping, or have a weekend full of graduation parties, you may be wondering how to navigate these busy weekends. Have no fear, Livea Weight Control Centers is here to share tips and tricks to have a healthy and delicious weekend.

Snacks for the Road

The start of every great weekend getaway begins with the road trip there. When you are packing for your destination, don’t forget about snacks for the car ride to throw in your cooler, lunchbox, or bag. When it comes to eating in the car, quick and easy are our go-to options. Smart snacks for the road can include mixed nuts, low-fat cheese sticks, and easy-access produce such as pre-cut cucumbers or broccoli. Having quick nutritious snacks on hand will help curb the gas station temptations.

Pre-Plan Weekend Meals

For many, weekend getaways are about having fun and relaxing outdoors. Taking the time before your getaway to plan your meals and snacks can help make the weekend even more enjoyable and stress free. Begin by finding your favorite nutritious recipes and writing a grocery list with all the needed ingredients to bring with you to your destination. Below are delicious and healthy Livea recipes that will keep your weekend on track.

Get Moving

The summer months in Minnesota and Wisconsin expands the different ways you can move your body. When on your weekend getaway dedicate some time to take advantage of the weather and get moving. Activity can range from walking around a lake, swimming, hiking, yard games, and canoeing. Getting your body moving can help manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, and strengthen your bones and muscles.

Be Mindful of Beverages

Alcoholic beverages tend to be present for many of us on summer weekends. You may be thinking, “How can I have a cocktail without wrecking my weight loss progress?”. Moderation is key. Alcohol contains only empty calories and can even dehydrate our bodies. If you plan on having alcoholic beverages, try having a glass of water in between. Additionally, choosing lower calorie drinks is ideal. Below you will see a few suggestions for lower calorie drinks.

  • Light beer = approximately 100 calories
  • Dry wine = approximately 125 calories
  • Rum and Diet Coke = approximately 85 calories
  • Hard seltzer = approximately 100 calories

Keep in mind, water is always essential, especially during the hot summer months. Make sure to get at least 64 ounces of water each day. This summer try reaching for non-alcoholic beverages such as a sparkling water or try one our flavored H2O Enhancers to keep you hydrated and help aid in your weight loss journey. You can also try one of the Livea mocktail recipes below to keep you hydrated on hot summer weekends.

Listen to your Body Cue’s

Meal schedules are often unpredictable on the weekends and food tends to be in arms reach everywhere we go. Remember to stick to the basics and eat every 2 to 3 hours to keep your metabolism in balance. The key is to listen to your body and eat when you are truly feeling hungry.

These tips and tricks aren’t just limited to weekend getaways! You can utilize them all year long for continued success. If you are looking for more tips and recipes, reach out to your Livea Consultant today!

References

1          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, April 27). Benefits of Physical Activity. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm#:~:text=Being%20physically%20active%20can%20improve,activity%20gain%20some%20health%20benefits

2          Livea Weight Control Centers. Livea Guide Book. Livea Weight Control Centers, 2019.