Taking 90/10 On the Road

Good intentions have a way of getting derailed as soon as the slightest change in routine occurs.  This is no more evident than when taking a diet or fitness plan on vacation.  On a long drive, the food choices are abundantly limited, the fitness opportunities are fewer, and the energy and motivation decline faster than the gas gauge.

The attitude changes as well.  "I'm on vacation, I'm going to enjoy myself" or similar mantras are easy to adopt and make one's own.  It's easy to justify a binge eating or drinking fest.  It's easy to justify sleeping in or opting against an exercise session.  In other words, it's easy to become a victim of the circumstances.

It takes hard work to keep the momentum, and a good deal of planning and forethought.  And, if there is a lack of support, it's even more difficult. 

The good news is it can be done.  Road trip food, for me, has become hard boiled eggs, raw almonds, fresh berries, dried apples, and sunflower seeds.  No chips, no drive through, no candy, no Starbucks mocha frappuccinos.  The difference is, I arrive at my destination feeling fresh, not drained, energetic, not lethargic.  And, most notably, encouraged, not discouraged.

I help my host plan the meals, and if I allow that they don't want to eat my way, they are more likely to allow that I don't want to eat their way, and we manage to present a meal that works for both.  If I'm going to a picnic, cookout, or potluck, I bring something I can eat, so I know there will be at least one thing on the table that works toward my ultimate end.

Anyone familiar with weightloss efforts knows that it takes weeks to come off and days to put on.  I'm just not willing to take those steps backwards and start over right now.  I'm too close to my goal!

Sunday: Sliders, Sweet Potato Fries, Corn on the Cob, fresh peaches or pineapple

(If you're a 90/10 participant, make chicken sliders and eat them bunless or make whole wheat buns.  Eat baked un-sweetened sweet potatoes instead of the fries, and eat your corn plain.)

Monday: Spinach and Feta Frittata, fresh fruit, turkey bacon

(90/10 variance: omit bacon)

To make the frittata cook faster, divide it into 4 individual au gratin dishes.

Tuesday: Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

(90/10: no change)

Wednesday:  Grilled Chicken Breasts, Simple Green Bean Salad, Baked Sweet Potatoes

(90/10: no change)

Hint: make extra chicken to speed up tomorrow night's meal

Thursday: Chicken Fried Rice

(90/10: use olive oil instead of vegetable oil)

Friday: Zen Salmon, Steamed Brown Rice, roasted asparagus

Saturday: Pizza

(90/10: make this pizza, without the mozzarella cheese blend, and use a whole wheat bagel instead of the storebought pizza crust)