How to Win: Bikini vs. Bloat

Finally the time has come and your vacation is here. You've planned, saved, and even went on a diet. All this in preparation for your trip to an exotic location where you intend to spend every minute lounging in the sun with a suitcase full of nothing but swimwear. So there is nothing more disappointing than when you wake up on a beautiful day, in a tropical setting only to find that you feel like a bloated mess. What happened? What went wrong? The fact of the matter is, you have probably brought this feeling upon yourself. Think back, think back hard if necessary. What did you eat an hour ago, 5 hours ago, yesterday? What you eat can have a positive or negative effect on how your body feels. I don't know about you but when I don't feel great the last thing I want to do is squeeze into a tiny bikini. But don't worry there's still hope. With a little planning and savvy eating you can feel your best come beach time. Here are our tips of what to steer clear of to help avoid the bloat.

Not all healthy foods are your friends right now. Healthy eating is one of the keys to staying in shape. However some of our favorite good for you foods are the same ones we want to avoid come vacation time. Keep a close eye on foods that are known to cause gas. While broccoli, cabbage, cucumbers and brussel sprouts are all amazingly nutritious and help you fit into your bikini long term, short term you may want to skip them the day before or day of to avoid any discomfort while trying to relax.

Say so long to salt. While enjoying your trip try to get your salt intake from the ocean, not from your food. Sodium heavy foods can cause you to retain water which leads to that bloated feeling that can put a damper on the best of days. No need to cut out salt entirely, just be careful not to over do it.

Skip the bubbles. We aren't talking just champagne. Anything that is carbonated creates gas which can build up in the stomach and cause bloating. For a few days it's best to say goodbye to sodas and sparkling water.

These are just a few quick tips on what to avoid before and during your trip. Never let that bloated feeling keep you from killing it in your favorite bikini. Enjoy your travels!

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FUN IN THE SUN IN...

 

O'ahu, Hawaii

O'ahu, Hawaii, also known as "The Gathering Place" is destination to approximately 4.5 million people annually. As an island, the beach is never too far away and provides a variety of activities to suit anyone's specific desires. From Waikiki's city like beach environment to the North Shore's many secluded hideaways, O'ahu has it all. What makes this particular Hawaiian island so different from the others? It has everything anyone could ever want all in one location. It is the home to the University of Hawaii, Pearl Harbor, and Honolulu, the state capital. It provides a plethora of shopping, from gift stores to luxury boutiques. You want more? They give it to you...surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, fine dining, nightlife, music and so much more! We have selected our top 4 must see things to do in O'ahu.

Pearl Harbor is the site of a National Historical landmark that commemorates the attack on the United States naval base on December 7, 1941. This series of events is what led the US into WWII. Today you can remember the past and pay tribute by visiting the USS Arizona Memorial and the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Make sure you plan ahead because there is plenty to see and do and the waits can be lengthy. 

Looking to refuel on the go? Stop by for some of O'ahu's famous food trucks for a quick bite that is anything but fast food.  Keep an eye out for Giovanni's Shrimp Truck featuring shrimp scampi, lemon butter shrimp and of course the jumbo garlic hot dog. Now I'm hungry!

Trying to find a great place to snorkel? Look no further than Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Park. Prior to gaining access to the beach visitors must watch a short video to educate them on the preserve. It is well worth the time and entrance fee as the bay is filled with an exotic assortment of marine life. There is no shortage of colorful fish and coral in this underwater paradise.

 What trip to Hawaii would be complete without a Luau? Featuring traditional Hawaiian fare and of course Hula dancing! While the dancing styles can vary from Polynesian, Tahitian, and Samoan, one thing is for sure, whichever you see will be sure to entertain. My personal favorite is the fire dancing!

With so many activities to choose from there is never a dull moment. So whether you prefer to hang up your hammock and relax or are looking for an adventure filled getaway, O'ahu is the place for you. Aloha! 

Are you ready for your trip? Click HERE to start packing.