In December 2015, I went on the first major diet in my life. My weight was finally reaching the point where it was starting to impact my daily life so both my wife and I decided to do something about it. The diet consists of a lot of portion control and a slight increase in exercise. Since December, I have lost 60 pounds and six inches off my waist. This post is not to discuss the pros and cons of dieting and my success while on this diet. It’s to discuss how to diet and go to Disney. I have a work trip scheduled for September and a family vacation to Disney scheduled December. These will be my first trips to Disney while on this diet. So, what are some ways that you can diet (or at least not gain weight) while on a Disney vacation?
PORTION CONTROL/SPLITTINGENTREES
An easy way to help stay on diet/maintain weight is to split entrees with a member of your travel party. The entree portions, at Disney, tend to run on the large side especially if you get a soup or salad for an appetizer. The easiest thing to do is to either skip the appetizer and/or split the entree. This is one of the fastest ways to cut calories. Imagine how much lighter you will feel if you only eat half of what is pictured above. Also, this tip will help your budget too since you aren’t buying an entree for every member of your travel party. Be advised: some restaurants may charge a small “plate splitting” fee to recover some of their lost revenues.
SKIP DESSERT OR SNACKS
Another way to reduce your calorie intake to simply skip dessert or snack altogether. Or replace that dessert/snack with something more healthy (maybe roasted almonds that you brought with you or purchased from a grocery service like Garden Grocer). This first two tips may sound like I’m telling you not to eat. I’m not. Just watch what you eat. As a friend of mine told me when I started in December, “Everything is a trade-off. You can have that ice cream sandwich for a snack but that just means you are going to have a salad or something light for dinner.” If dinner is the end of your day in the parks, ask you take the dessert to go and have it for an evening snack.
BE SURE TO DRINK PLENTY OF WATER
Water serves a dual purpose. It’s first purpose is still its most important purpose: keeping you hydrated in the Florida sun. No one wants to be dehydrated and in the first aid station while on vacation. It’s second purpose is to trick your mind into thinking you are full or, at least, not on an empty stomach. This should help reduce the desire for that churro or that big scoop of popcorn or Mickey bar. Another budget tip is to get free water from the many quick service locations in the parks.
ALL THE WALKING HELP BURN CALORIES
A Disney vacation does involve a lot of walking probably more than you do at home. All of these extra walking will burn more calories than you usually do. This will go a long way in helping you do a good job of maintain your weight while on vacation. Combine the extra walking with some portion control and skipping a few desserts or snack and you should come home without gaining a lot of “vacation weight.”
Thanks for reading!
Good tips. Thanks.
Excellent tips and reminders for being healthy while on a Disney vacation! Don’t forget that most Disney restaurants (even quick service) offer terrific vegetarian options and/or healthier sides to help cut calories. They can be really delicious and filling!
Congrats on your healthy choices and weight loss. May I ask about how much time you spend on exercise per week, or what routine has helped you?
Mainly walking around the neighborhood. Lots of portion control.
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A Blog for All Things Disney Created by a Dad
As a seasoned enthusiast in both health and Disney vacations, I bring a wealth of first-hand experience and in-depth knowledge to the table. My commitment to a major lifestyle change in December 2015 resulted in a significant weight loss of 60 pounds and a reduction of six inches off my waist. This achievement was not merely a personal triumph but a testament to my dedication to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Now, delving into the concepts discussed in the provided article—Dining Plan, Trip Planning, Walt Disney World—let's break down the key elements:
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Dining Plan:
- The article emphasizes the importance of portion control as a crucial aspect of maintaining a diet while at Disney. This involves being mindful of the sizes of entrees and considering options like splitting meals with a travel companion. It not only contributes to dietary goals but also aligns with budget-conscious choices.
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Trip Planning:
- The article suggests practical strategies for incorporating healthy habits into a Disney vacation. From skipping desserts or snacks to opting for healthier alternatives like roasted almonds, it underscores the idea of making mindful choices during the trip. Additionally, the advice to take desserts to go for an evening snack demonstrates thoughtful planning for the overall dining experience.
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Walt Disney World:
- Acknowledging the unique dining environment at Walt Disney World, the article addresses the large portion sizes often served. The concept of splitting entrees is particularly relevant in this context, helping visitors manage their calorie intake while enjoying their vacation.
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Portion Control/Splitting Entrees:
- This concept is a cornerstone of the article, emphasizing the practicality of sharing entrees to both control calorie intake and save on expenses. The mention of potential "plate splitting" fees adds a layer of real-world advice for those considering this strategy.
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Skip Dessert or Snacks:
- The article advocates for reducing calorie intake by skipping desserts or snacks. It also suggests replacing these with healthier alternatives, aligning with the overall theme of making conscious dietary choices while still enjoying the Disney experience.
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Drink Plenty of Water:
- Highlighting the dual purpose of water, the article emphasizes hydration in the Florida sun while also using it as a tool for appetite control. This not only contributes to health but also aligns with budget-conscious tips by recommending free water from quick-service locations.
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Walking to Burn Calories:
- Recognizing the physical activity involved in a Disney vacation, the article underscores the importance of the extra walking as a means to burn calories. This concept aligns with a holistic approach to weight management during the trip, combining increased physical activity with dietary mindfulness.
In conclusion, the provided article offers practical and experienced-based advice on navigating a Disney vacation while maintaining a healthy lifestyle, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the intersection between dietary choices and the unique environment of Walt Disney World.
