Food & Fitness Far from Home

The stress and turmoil of traveling these days can wreak havoc with your diet, not to mention your nerves. But it's possible to stick to your weight management goals, whether you're off to an exotic locale, traveling for business, or visiting relatives. Eating smart while traveling can be convenient and quick, it just takes a little advance planning.

Foods such as yogurt, fresh fruit, and protein bars are a great way to give the body what it needs to perform at its peak. Protein bars like those made by Trim Advantage are ideal for on-the-go, an excellent source of protein, and available in mouth-watering flavors like Mixed Berry Smoothie, Banana Creme, Caramel Vanilla and Fudgy Brownie with Almonds.

In addition to packing clothes and toiletries, stock a gallon-size zip-top plastic bag with these handy, shelf-stable foods:

• Protein bars or meal replacement bars in favored flavors.

• Individual servings of unsweetened, instant oatmeal.

• Your favorite brand of no-calorie sweetener.

• Small boxes of raisins, cranberries, cherries, or dried fruit. 

Be sure to include plastic utensils. On the day you're traveling, throw the bag in your carry-on, plus some string cheese and fresh fruit. You're all set -- even if your flight's delayed!

Food for flight
When the flight attendants offer drinks and your stomach growls, order a cup of hot water and a container of fat-free or low-fat milk. Make your oatmeal in the cup, add sweetener and fruit, and top with milk. You have an instant, healthy, high-fiber breakfast!

I love a buffet!
You've landed and checked in to your hotel. They offer you the key to the mini-bar. You decline. No need to have those candy bars and calorie-laden drinks tempting you. Place your own protein bars and fruit on the bureau, desk, or bedside table, where they'll catch your eye when you feel hungry.

And now it's time for your first meal. Choose the buffet. Not only is it less expensive, you can usually find lots of healthy options.

• Load your plate with salad, for starters. The darker the lettuce leaves, the healthier. Top with a touch of balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, plus a tablespoon or feta or bleu cheese for extra flavor.

• Ask the carver to slice you some lean prime rib or sirloin -- trim away the fat.

• Sample lower calorie treats like sushi, hummus, tabbouleh, or smoked salmon.

• Indulge in fresh fruit -- buffets usually have strawberries and tropical fruits, even when they're out of season.

• Know when to say when. If you're full, stop eating!

Burn, baby, burn
Pack a workout outfit and shoes, along with exercise bands and your MP3 player, or even a complete fitness kit like the Travel Trainer. You'll feel better, and get less stressed by travel if you're exercising regularly.

(Source: Quixtar)