1. Plan ahead:
   When you are camping, visiting a cottage, or day-tripping; having to prepare good meals seems like a lot of work. Plan ahead for what meals you are going to have and consider preparing and freezing what you can make ahead of time. Nothing nicer than getting back from the beach, opening the cooler and just having to heat up a nutritious meal with minimal prep. Added bonus if you are camping: frozen meals will stay fresh longer as well. 
2. Be okay with eating out of the ordinary:
   Going along with number one, easy is best when vacationing. Depending on what you are doing, you may not have access to all your regular appliances or ingredients. Usually have a smoothie for breakfast? Enjoy yogurt with berries topped with seeds, nuts or flaked coconut. Or pack some canned coconut and soak with chia seeds for some chia pudding that you can add all kinds of toppings to. Or have something totally different – it is okay to eat out of your routine once in a while and you may even try a new favourite. Different doesn’t have to be a less healthy alternative, it may just be an adaptation of what you usually have.
3. Pack fuel and not just for your campfire:
   If you are like our family, relaxation is at the top of our list when vacationing but getting fresh air and exercise is as well. Naturally when you are out in nature you are going to move more so be prepared. Have snacks with you like fresh fruit or trail mix so when that hunger strikes you don’t reach for the wrong things or end up with blood sugar imbalance. When we exercise, our body needs extra fuel as we burn those calories and to help sustain or build muscle.
4. Rosemary to the rescue:
   Easy meals when on vacation often come off the bbq. Consider marinading or sprinkling rosemary on your grilled meat and vegetables to combat any carcinogenic affect grilling can have on your food. Always cook slow and low for optimal flavour and to avoid charring your meat.
5. It is ok to cheat here and there on vacation (or in daily life):
   Being on vacation often means treats and snacking and that is ok. It also doesn’t mean you have to throw out all the rules so that you feel unwell or less energetic. But don’t be hard on yourself. It is ok if you have a little extra of this or that treat you only reserve for special occasions. It is great if you have a healthy eating routine you follow daily but it is also ok to take a small detour from it here and there. Small detours allow you to get right back on track, however taking your eating in the opposite direction can have you headed in a direction you didn’t want to go – even on vacation, moderation is key!

For more information about our nutrition services, call us at 519.751.0728 or email pathwaystohopebrant@gmail.com