By Monica Beyer, Cheapism
[post_ads]Spring break is fast
approaching, with the promise of trips to sunny destinations and the
lure of serious partying. Instead of throwing caution to the wind and
putting New Year's resolutions on the back burner, keep these 17 tips in mind as you head off on an exciting vacation.
It's tempting to go on a crash diet before donning bathing suits for spring break, but this can lead to rapid weight gain once the diet is abandoned.
If you've been pretty sedentary
over the past semester and don't exercise regularly, it might not be
the best idea to jump into hardcore physical activity the second you hit
the beach. Pace yourself, and turn down that offer to go on a massive
hike if you're not up to it.
This can be a hard one, as spring break seems synonymous with alcohol consumption. However, drinking and swimming (or driving a boat) can be very hazardous. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
reports that alcohol use is involved in up to 70 percent of deaths
associated with water recreation among adolescents and adults.
Spring break often means lots
of time out in the sun. Keep water on hand, as dehydration is a risk --
even during a dip in the ocean or pool. The American College of Sports Medicine
recommends drinking about 17 ounces of water two hours before heading
out to be physically active. Then keep it up the rest of the day.
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Instead of relying on fast food when you're experiencing last-minute hunger pangs, visit a local grocery store and stock up on healthy snacks, such as almonds or dried fruit.
In some developing parts of the world, ordinary tap water isn't safe to drink.
This can be an issue when brushing your teeth, as water is often
swallowed unintentionally. Instead, use sealed bottled water to avoid
the unpleasantness of traveler's diarrhea.
While loafing around may
sound ideal on vacay, make time every day for some physical activity.
Whether it's a brisk walk, a visit to a hotel gym, or a round of
volleyball, your heart and health will thank you.
Missing a few hours of sleep every night during spring break can have poor health outcomes. If you're driving a car, it can double your crash risk, but even if you're saying put, lack of sleep can boost your appetite, encourage weight gain, and lower your immune system.
Sunscreen is a vital tool that can help reduce the chances of skin cancer, but studies have shown that 70 percent of women and 85 percent of men do not use it on a regular basis. Get in the habit, especially when you're outside all day.
[post_ads]According to the CDC,
about 20 percent of travelers say they have casual sex with a new
partner in a foreign country. Whether your spring break is stateside or
not, condoms are a must for casual hookups to help keep sexually
transmitted diseases at bay.
Skipping meals can lead to binging later and send the body's endocrine system out of whack. Neither situation is desirable, so make time to eat at least three meals a day.
All-inclusive resorts
with buffets are great, but they can lead to overconsumption of
unhealthy foods. Instead, fill plates with fruits, veggies, and lean
meats, and avoid buttery rolls and the dessert bar.
Late-night eating isn't the healthiest habit, especially if you've already reached your caloric limit during the day, so set a "food curfew," such as no eating after 8 or 10 p.m., and stick to it.
Missing a few hours of sleep every night during spring break can have poor health outcomes. If you're driving a car, it can double your crash risk, but even if you're saying put, lack of sleep can boost your appetite, encourage weight gain, and lower your immune system.
Sunscreen is a vital tool that can help reduce the chances of skin cancer, but studies have shown that 70 percent of women and 85 percent of men do not use it on a regular basis. Get in the habit, especially when you're outside all day.
Protection from the sun isn't just about skin; eyes need protection as well. Too much exposure can lead to serious problems, such as cataracts, growths, or cancer. Invest in a pair of UV-blocking sunnies and a big-brimmed hat.
