5 Tips for Staying Healthy While Traveling This Summer

One of the best things about summer vacation is taking a break from the hustle and bustle of work and your everyday responsibilities. And, no matter how you approach it — whether you take on your vacation like a weekend warrior jam, packing each day as if it were your last day on Earth, or become one with your lounge chair and only move when it’s absolutely necessary — you can also stay healthy during your summer travels.

The highly trained medical team here at Macomb Medical Clinic in Sterling Heights, Michigan, offers these wellness tips to help you get the most out of your summer travel season.

Enjoy the local cuisine (but not too much!)

When it comes to the temptations of food and drink, think of your summer trips like a seemingly endless string of holiday parties. The never-ending possibility of lavish foods and decadent desserts — not to mention wine, beer, and cocktails — are all just dangling in front of you. You probably want to order one of everything. Your first reaction may even be, “I’m on vacation. What’s the harm?” Well, just like at that holiday party, if you ate and drank everything that was offered, you wouldn’t feel so good afterwards. 

Hangovers and stomachaches don’t care that you are on vacation. So instead, start your day with a healthy breakfast or add a side salad to your lunch and dinner. You may be on vacation, but your body still needs to be fueled with nutrients. Besides, that Greek yogurt with fruit at breakfast and green salad at lunch will help you feel less guilty when you order those French fries or chocolate mousse later.

Factor in some exercise

If you’re the type of person that likes to skip the museum tour in favor of spending a whole day at the beach or poolside, remember to factor in some exercise each day. If you really don’t want to hit the gym at your hotel, simple things like a 15-minute walk around town or on the beach can do the trick, as can a short hike or swim. 

Each travel destination will have some natural amenities for you to tap into. Don’t think of it as exercise, but as a way of exploring where you are. Infusing your day with a little exercise will keep you refreshed, energized, and healthy.

Catch your Zs

One of the perks of vacation time is not having to get up early. However, getting proper sleep while you are traveling will keep you rested and refreshed. If you want to stay up all night dancing, you can, but make sure you let your body rest up at some point. Sleeping late or taking afternoon naps will provide the necessary time for your mind and body to rest and restore. Remember, good sleep plays an important role in weight management as well as chronic diseases like diabetes — so get proper rest and your body will serve you well.

Mind your allergies

If you are on allergy medications or have asthma or food allergies, make sure that you pack your medications and supplies. If you’re flying or going to a destination abroad and have concerns about possible impacts to your condition, call us before you leave and we’ll be happy to guide you on some precautionary measures. Being prepared to manage your symptoms while you’re traveling is an important ingredient to a healthy, stress-free vacation.

Drink plenty of water

No matter where you’re going and what you’ll be doing, staying hydrated is crucial. When you’re taken out of your normal environment, it’s much easier to become dehydrated. Stave off headaches and fatigue by drinking water throughout the day. Depending on where you are traveling, you may want to opt for bottled water. Remember to fuel your body with fluids (even when you aren’t thirsty) to stay in tip-top shape during your trip. 

Happy travels. If you have any specific concerns or questions about managing a chronic illness while you’re away this summer, give us at call here at Macomb Medical Clinic in Sterling Heights, Michigan prior to your trip. Call or click to make an appointment.