Pack Portable Snacks
If you’re like me, weekends usually involve the kiddos activities. Football, basketball, tennis; hanging out with other parents in the stands. Pack as many portable snacks as you can. Review the 21 Day Foods List to see which ones work best for you. Colored ziplock bags from Target work well so you know which containers correspond with each snack. Nuts, whole grain crackers, homemade protein bars, individual sized oatmeal packets, fruit, cut veggies, mozzarella sticks and of course Shakeology packets are great things to bring with you in an insulated cooler. Don’t forget water! Freeze it so it can help keep other things cool.
Healthy Eating
Weekends usually are times when a lot of people go out to eat, and often at restaurants that don’t have the healthiest options. You also may be away from home without access to the good stuff.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water during the day and especially before you go out to eat.
- “Pre-eat” before going out for a high-fat meal. With a little food in your stomach, you’ll be less tempted to overeat and will be able to exercise more control. Have your Shakeology right before you go.
- Go easy on the alcohol and other calorie-laden beverages. If you’re out drinking, order a large glass of water too. Alternate one alcoholic beverage for one glass of water if you’re going to be having more than one. Remember, the 21 Day Fix allows for one glass of wine three times a week (your “special” yellow containers).
- Plan your cheat meal ahead of time. One of my favorite things about traveling is trying new and different foods. Plan ahead so you know when this meal will be, and enjoy it to the fullest!
- Don’t let your blood sugar dip too low. Pack healthy snacks like homemade protein bars and Shakeology packets. Keep blender bottles and packets in your car.
- I don’t always have time to make my own protein bars, but I do know which protein bars are the best. Trust me, they’re not all created equally! Read this protein bar comparison before you shop.
Restaurant Temptation
- Look at the menu online and choose something healthy before you arrive. That way, you won’t be tempted by all the great smells and order something you shouldn’t.
- Order what you want, even if it’s not on the menu. If the ingredients are on the menu, chances are the cook can make something to your specification even if it’s not listed. Don’t be afraid to request what you want.
- Whittle calories off what you order: Skip the bun on a burger, order grilled instead of fried, and ask to have sauces, dressings and gravies served on the side, opt for steamed veggies instead of fries.
- If you do order something less than healthy, go easy on the portion size. Eat half now, save half for later. Or, split it with a friend or family member.
- Be careful with appetizers. Often, they’re loaded with fat and contain 1000 calories or more. Side dishes too – instead of mashed potatoes or fries, order the salad with dressing on the side.
- Often, menus will have icons next to meals indicating that they are a healthy or low-calorie choice. Look for those.
Keep Moving!
- Sometimes despite your best efforts you’re still going to take in more calories on the weekend. That’s OK – as long as you can make up for it with exercise. Use an app like MyFitnessPal to track calories and calories out. Even if you don’t do the 21 Day Fix videos, it’s important to stay active.
- Most people often have more time on the weekends to work out. Use that to your advantage! Incorporate activities into your family’s lifestyle. Go biking, hiking, or try something new like kayaking or zip-lining. Kids love it when their parents get active with them. If you decided to go biking but you don’t have your bikes yet, visit a site like this https://www.aventon.com/collections/electric-assist-bike-aventon for ebikes which can fit both your needs and your style.