Woo hoo! You're going on a cruise. We at the Weight and Wellness Center in Boston are very jealous. But you may be wondering - how will I stay focused on my weight loss and physical activity goals while on the ship? Our dietitians have provided some great tips below.
Will there be bariatric friendly food options on the ship?
There are many food options on cruise ships, and the staff is very accommodating to special requests. Vegetarian, vegan, even gluten free options are offered on board.
Buffet – While the buffet is often blamed for over indulgence, it also has numerous healthy food options. During breakfast there are several protein options such as eggs: hard boiled eggs, scrambled, or omelet made to order. There is also oatmeal, various cereals, milk, and cottage cheese. Lunch and dinner will offer a full salad bar with fresh veggies, soups, fruits, cold cuts, cheese and a carving station. There are also various other buffet option which vary day to day. Fresh fruits are available during every meal.
Dining Room – The buffet is not the only dining option. In addition to dinner every evening, the main dining room is also open for breakfast every morning and lunch on most days (usually sea/non-port days). The dining room provides a slower paced meal and portioned serving sizes. You may order any items you want from the menu, and inquire about other options and special orders. Lunch and dinner are three courses. Appetizers include salads, soups, shrimp cocktail, and other unique items. Many entrées are available in an appetizer portion. Again just ask your waiter, and they’ll be more than happy to accommodate you. Healthy food options are indicated on the menu.
Both the Buffet and Dining Room have healthy and sugar-free or no-sugar added options for dessert. Also, Try the ‘alcohol free’ or Virgin version of drinks or ‘spa drinks’ like fruity and herbal waters! Keep your water bottles filled between meals.
How can I stay active?
Don’t forget that even though the ship is in motion, you need to keep moving, too!
Fitness Center – most ships have a fitness center equipped with cardio machines and weights. Group exercise classes are offered (check the daily schedule of ship activities).
Walking Track – ships also have walking tracks or a deck dedicated for walking. Nothing is more beautiful than walking the ship deck during sunrise at sea.
Ship Activities – in general you will do a lot of walking during the cruise as you walk the ship from cabin to activities, and while sightseeing in the ports of call. Also, there are many fun activities such as swimming, mini-golf, rock climb wall, and basketball. Activities vary by ship, but there are many options to keep you moving.
Take the Stairs – unlike at a hotel where staircases might be for fire escape only, stairs on cruise ships are openly accessible and often the quickest way to navigate deck levels especially during peak times when elevators are full. Also, it’s a great way to get in some extra cardio exercise.
Remember, you are cruising to have fun! So the more you move, the better. Prepping and planning ahead is still the key to staying on track while cruising!
Posted November 2017
The above content is provided for educational purposes by Tufts Medical Center. It is free for educational use. For information about your own health, contact your physician.