https://youtu.be/Ls6kwhrwe9U
Video content summary: What I Eat in a Day While Traveling & On a Cut – LA Fit Expo Edition
Traveling can derail even the most meticulously planned diet, especially when you’re aiming for a calorie deficit. This “What I Eat in a Day” focuses on navigating a trip to the LA Fit Expo while adhering to a cut, demonstrating that it’s possible to stay on track even with travel-induced sleep deprivation and an unpredictable schedule. This article dives into the practical strategies employed to manage caloric intake, protein goals, and hydration, even when traditional meal prep isn’t feasible.
This behind-the-scenes look at a “what I ate on a particular day” rather than a “what I eat in a day” showcases the adaptability required for maintaining fitness goals on the go. We’ll explore the snacks packed, the on-the-fly meal choices, and the acceptance of imperfection as key components of successful travel nutrition.
Pre-Trip Preparations & Mindset
Packing Strategy for a 5-Day Trip
We’re heading out for a 5-day trip to the LA Fit Expo. Packing light is key for this work trip. I’ve opted to check a bag since it contains liquids. Plus, free checked bags are a perk we can’t pass up. My carry-on backpack holds my laptop and crucial snacks.
Protein-Rich Travel Snacks: For this 5-day journey, I’m bringing three packages of Tofurky. One is destined for the airport to serve as breakfast before heading through security. The remaining two are packed in my checked luggage, offering backup protein. These packages provide a good protein boost, with one containing 39g, another 32g, and the third around 17-18g depending on the flavor.
Smart Storage Solutions: To prevent any spills, I’ve placed the Tofurky packages inside a Stasher bag. This also comes in handy for other travel needs. It’s a smart way to keep food secure and accessible.
Strategic Luggage Packing: My carry-on is reserved for my laptop and snacks. The checked bag carries the bulk of my food items, including the Tofurky. This division ensures I have what I need without hassle.
Setting Realistic Goals
The plan for today is to stay between 1,500 and 1,600 calories. My protein target is around 120 grams. Staying hydrated is also a priority. I aim to hit 10,000 steps today. Since there’s no lifting session, this goal should be a bit easier to reach.
Calorie and Macronutrient Targets: The daily goal is set at 1,500-1,600 calories with about 120 grams of protein. This range helps me stay in a calorie deficit for my cut. It’s a manageable target even with the day’s challenges.
Hydration and Step Goals: Drinking plenty of water is non-negotiable. The 10,000-step goal is also on the agenda. While no lifting session exists today, the steps will contribute to overall activity.
Accepting Imperfection: I didn’t sleep at all last night. This lack of sleep is a curveball. I’m not expecting a “perfect” eating day. The goal is to stay relatively close to my targets, not to achieve flawlessness.
Travel Day: Airport and Flight Nutrition
We aimed to leave by 7 AM but, as is common in the Taylor Mary household, we ran a bit late. The drive to the airport took longer than anticipated. I’m currently sipping my Tofurky shake in the shuttle, making up for lost time.
Airport Lounge Breakfast
We managed to get to the airport lounge for a brief ten minutes. This was enough time to grab some oatmeal and add my own touches. The lounge offered plain oats and water. I added a tablespoon of coconut to my bowl. Then, I topped it with about 80 grams of the raspberries I brought along. This shake and oatmeal combination feels like a solid breakfast.
In-Flight Meal and Snacks
This flight has been quite long, and I’m starting to feel hungry. It’s completely understandable. I’ve packed a Nugo Slim bar to manage this hunger. I’ll also finish the rest of my raspberries. These berries are a nice addition but not a full meal on their own. I’m anticipating grabbing something substantial as soon as we land.
Arrival in Los Angeles & Evening Meal
We’ve landed in LA! We also met up with Ellis, who is about two and a half weeks out from her competition. She’ll be sharing her “what she eats in a day” soon, so keep an eye out for that. Before heading to the Airbnb, we made a quick stop at Trader Joe’s. We weren’t stocking up for today specifically, but for the weekend ahead.
Post-Landing Grocery Stop
We picked up a few essentials at Trader Joe’s. This included some apples and blueberries for later. We also grabbed coffee and almond milk. As a little treat for myself, I bought a Pink Lady kombucha. These items will be useful as we plan to cook meals at the LA Fit Expo. We’ll be making a tofu scramble and a quick vegan taco meat.
Dinner at Real Food Daily
Our destination for dinner was Real Food Daily. It’s one of the original vegan restaurants in Los Angeles. I ordered a large Caesar salad with homemade seitan. I make it a point to try vegan Caesar salads wherever I go. This one was incredibly delicious and provided the vegetables I needed.
Reflecting on the “What I Ate on This Day”
Analysis of Daily Intake
This has been a very strange day. Calling these “what I eat in a day” videos is a bit misleading; they’re more like “what I ate on that particular day.” As I finalized my intake, I questioned whether to even share this day’s food. It’s not typical of how I usually eat.
The lack of sleep, travel, and time change made today a challenge. Trying to stay close to my macros was difficult. I didn’t quite hit my 10,000 steps. However, I’m confident I met my calorie and protein goals. That big salad likely accounted for around 700-750 calories. Normally, I’d space meals closer together. I’d probably have fewer shakes and perhaps more vegetables spread throughout the day.
Lessons Learned and Adaptability
Traveling often requires adjustments to our usual routines. It’s okay to eat a little differently when on the road. Trying to force a “perfect” day wouldn’t have been genuine. This day, as it stands, shows that it’s possible to travel, hit your macros, and not end the day hungry. I did experience hunger at times, especially in traffic. But right now, I’m not feeling hungry.
Embracing Imperfection: A perfect day isn’t always realistic when traveling. It’s about making the best choices possible. Prioritizing Macros: Staying reasonably close to calorie and protein goals is achievable. The Value of Preparedness: Packing smart snacks makes a significant difference. Genuine vs. Polished Content: Sharing a less-than-ideal day offers a more authentic view.
Conclusion
Navigating a cut while traveling to events like the LA Fit Expo requires a blend of strategic planning and on-the-fly adaptation. This particular “what I ate on this day” demonstrates that even with sleep deprivation, travel delays, and unpredictable dining options, it’s possible to stay within target caloric and protein ranges. The key lies in prioritizing protein-rich snacks, making informed choices at meal times, and accepting that deviation from a home routine is often necessary. By focusing on overall goals rather than absolute perfection, maintaining fitness progress on the road becomes an achievable reality.
