CHERRY CREEK FASHION — Vacation or Staycation // 8 Tips To Make it Healthy With Advice From Nutritionist Nikki Burnett

Nutrition Editor NIKKI BURNETT MS CNTP MNT is a Functional Nutritionist at Taste Life Nutrition. Nikki works with ambitious professionals to help them overcome hidden barriers to both health and success. Challenges such as chronic stress, brain fog, low energy, and stubborn chronic issues frequently have their roots in unhealthy foods and unknown inflammatory conditions. Functional nutrition is based on the science of functional medicine. The goal is to understand the body through functional lab testing, genetic testing, environmental factors, stress, and lifestyle.

Editor’s Note: This article is for information purposes only. Please check with your medical provider before beginning any treatment.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY ESTHER LEE LEACH

The beach and the sun have been calling my name! Right now, I’m planning my vacation to Belize, where one of the things I’m looking forward to the most is experiencing the fresh, local food. I dream of waking in the morning to fresh coconut meat and tropical fruit then enjoying the catch of the day for dinner.

During a vacation or staycation, there is always the potential for overindulging—whether it’s on the food or the local beverages. I’ll be no different on my trip, but my goal is to stick to fresh, healthy foods, enjoy a bit of libation, dig deep into the culture, and most of all, relax while experiencing things I’ve never experienced before.

For me, the key to fully enjoying a vacation or staycation is to realize that it’s not work. I’m very aware of the temptation to “just do a quick email check”. When I asked my business coach how to be most productive on the flight, he said, “Don’t take your computer!” To his point, I believe the need to fully relax and disconnect is much needed. Now I’ll let my cortisol levels fully deflate and come back with a tan, a belly full of healthy, fresh food, and experiences that will live in my memory for a lifetime.

TIP 1: STOCK THE KITCHEN

This is one of my favorite tips. Book a location with a kitchen so you can prepare your own healthy meals. I would always stay in a home or condo with a kitchen when I traveled regularly for work. Also, take note of what appliances are stocked in the kitchen. For example, blenders are a great way to make delicious smoothies that will likely cost you three times as much if you were to buy them.

If it’s your thing, hire a chef to cook a few meals for you so you know the ingredients but all you have to do is sit back and enjoy your vacation/staycation.

When you first arrive, head to the grocery store to stock up on fresh foods. You’ll save a ton of money and discover local favorites in the area. If you have a car, carry a cooler with you so you won’t be tempted to eat foods that are not beneficial.

The same goes if you’re on staycation – prep with healthy snacks and foods for meals so you’re not as likely to call in for takeout. Part of the fun of disconnecting from work is having the time to experiment and do the things you typically don’t have time to do. Consider hosting a cooking night and experiment with friends and family.

TIP 2: ENJOY THE LOCAL GRUB

It’s ok to indulge a little in local fare that you can’t get anywhere else. Don’t go too overboard, but don’t deny yourself, either.

TIP 3: PREVIEW ONLINE

If you dine out, preview the menu options online before you head out. Know what you’re walking into, and you’ll enjoy it even more.

TIP 4: PACK IT UP

Consider packing your favorite fruits, protein bars, and other healthy snacks, so you’re not stuck with unhealthy meal options.

TIP 5: BE A LOCAL

Spend the day enjoying artisanal goods firsthand by visiting the local farmer’s market. The fair prices and cultural experiences are great additions to picking up fresh snacks for the week and enjoying locally crafted souvenirs.

Do the same for your staycation! Get out and enjoy your area, the local food, and crafts, and play tourist in your own town.

TIP 6: GET CREATIVE & STAY ACTIVE

You don’t have to book a place that has a fitness center to stay active. You’re likely to be just as active by enjoying local activities so live a little and save the gym workouts for home.

If this is a staycation, look for activities that you’ve not had a chance to experience before – have you ever done indoor skydiving or gone to a trampoline park? Maybe you hold a retreat for close friends and family.

TIP 7: DRINK IN MODERATION

A single sugar-laden margarita can contain over 700 calories! Choose healthier choices instead like a white-wine spritzer, a light beer, or a hard liquor on the rocks.

TIP 8: SKIP THE BUFFETT

Hot breakfast buffets are hard to pass up when they are included with your stay, but they are even harder to work off. If the buffet is unavoidable, choose the smallest plate and fill it with as many fruits and vegetables as possible. You’ll fill up and you won’t feel guilty splurging on a special meal later.

Whatever you decide, enjoy every moment fully, savor every bite, and Taste Life!

Nikki Burnett: @tastelifenutrition // info@tastelifenutrition