Business travel seems to be an inevitable part of my life. And with it, follows the inevitable weight gain. I’m trying to find a way to stop this vicious cycle.
This trip, I’ve been traveling alone, so I’ve put a few roadblocks in place.
And it just looks so tempting... BUT NO!
Step 1: Choose the Right Restaurant
I’ve got a few simple rules to keep me on the right track. First, no drive thru's. This rules out a lot of menus with fried food, so my temptation upon ordering isn’t even tested. Second, if they serve you free chips/bread upon seating, either don’t stop or request that it not be brought to your table. Sorry tortilla chips, I miss you already.
Step 2: Skip a Few Buzz Words
Chicken or fish = yes. Pasta, potatoes, or cheese = No. This quickly narrows the menu and pushes you in the right direction.
Step 3: Always Have a Vegetable
Pick something green (starches don’t count). Okay, it can be another color. But seriously, vegetable. Have one… or two... or maybe even three. Pretty sure you're supposed to have that at least per day according to the food pyramid.
Step 4: No Apps, Booze, or Dessert
These extras are just unnecessary calories. Sure, they are delicious! But these are the items that put the gas on the gain weight train. Restaurant meals are already large portions, so there’s no need to keep adding the extras.
Step 5: Exceptions
Let's face it. These steps sound easy, and you should be able to follow them. But sometimes life (cough, cough work) gets in the way. I have one exception to following my own rules, and it's simple. If you can only think of one thing you really want, have it, and NOTHING ELSE. I mean, nothing else.
My guilty pleasure is ice cream. Hands down. I have been known to skip dinner in its entirety for a kid's cone.
Nom Nom Nom! Happy Eating! And go luck with your attempts at healthy travels!
