Get the Most Out of Your Healthy Vacation

Planning that winter get-away?  Dreams of sunny shores, romantic jaunts on the beach, and late nights at neon dance clubs no doubt fill your head.  But as you set off for fun in the sun, keep these three hints in mind so that your week at the beach doesn’t turn into an expensive week in a hotel bed:

1. Stay Hydrated

Playing on the beach will dehydrate you very quickly, especially if your body is not adapted to the climate at your destination.  Drinking the minimum 64 ounces of water a day is not going be sufficient to keep you hydrated.  And no, that pink martini you’re planning to sip all day doesn’t count either.  You should be drinking at least 10 (8 ounce) glasses of water a day to replenish your body while hanging out on the beach, and even more (12-15) if you plan on exercising and/or drinking alcoholic beverages.  A little dehydration may not seem like a big deal, but it can really zap your energy.  And dehydration left unchecked can lead to headaches, cramps, constipation, and significant fatigue while severe dehydration can be deadly.  Don’t let dehydration take you off the beach or make you sit out at the dance club: make sure you’re drinking enough water.

2. Use Sunscreen

I know, I know, this is your one chance this winter to get a real tan…but pass up the sun worshiping in the interest of your health and your skin.  Bring UVA/UVB lotion with an SPF of 30 and reapply every 2 to 3 hours that you spend on the beach; and remember to apply the sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure and then reapply frequently if swimming or sweating.  The nearer to the equator you’re traveling, the stronger you will find the UVA/UVB rays to which you are exposed, and thus the potentially more serious damage you are doing to your skin.  Too much sun exposure can lead to sunburn, blistering, peeling, rashes, fever and nausea, not to mention skin cancer.  And don’t forget to protect your eyes with sunglasses.  Also, consider using a hat and light, long sleeve clothing for extra cover up when you are not trying to catch some rays. 

3.  Watch What You Eat

Whether you are traveling nationally or internationally, you should pay attention to what you are consuming.  Though local street food may be cheap, authentic, and alluring, it may have more to it than you bargained for.  Food sold at outdoor food stands is exposed to bacteria that could leave you doubled over for the rest of your vacation.  If you are traveling internationally, it is recommended that you avoid fresh salad and unpeeled or uncooked fruits and vegetables, as the very water that these raw items are washed with may be carrying bacteria your body is not prepared for.  Here are some rules of thumb that may seem obvious but are often neglected: make sure hot food comes hot; peel all raw fruits and vegetables; and drink only bottled water (and only if you hear the seal crack when you open it, indicating that it is a new bottle).     

As you head off on your vacation, keep these important tips in mind. Remember to be safe, responsible, and to use your best judgment as you travel.  You can leave your work and worries at home, but remember to pack your common sense. 

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