Real Talk with Cherie: Friendship, Food, and Finding Balance on Vacation

This week while visiting my friend Cherie, we sat down for a relaxed chat about something so many people ask me about — how to maintain healthy, bariatric-friendly habits while spending time with loved ones who don’t eat or live the same way.

The truth? It’s completely possible, and honestly… it’s easier when you have a friend like Cherie.

In our conversation, we talked about how differently we each approach food and health, yet how we’ve always supported each other’s goals. We shared what we’ve learned from one another over the years, and how friendship sometimes means simply listening and cheering each other on — even when our paths don’t look the same.

We laughed about our favorite memories from the week, and I opened up about the small choices that helped me stay protein-focused and balanced while traveling. From sugar-free coffee runs to mindful meals and enjoyable movement, this vacation was a beautiful reminder that healthy living can fit into any environment when you stay intentional.

As I head home, I’m taking with me not just the memories, but the reminder that support systems matter, and friendships like this make the journey even sweeter.

Packing for a Bariatric-Friendly Vacation: My Protein-Forward Travel Essentials

Heading out on vacation soon? Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a few weeks with family, staying on track with your bariatric goals while traveling doesn’t have to be hard! I’ve learned that a little preparation makes all the difference. In this post, I’m sharing what I pack for a bariatric-friendly trip — everything from my protein staples to my daily vitamins — so you can stay consistent, feel your best, and still enjoy your time away.

🧳 My Bariatric Travel Essentials

1. Protein Shakes & Drinks
Protein is the foundation of my day, so I always make sure to pack my favorite ready-to-drink shakes. They’re quick, easy, and keep me full when I’m on the go.

2. Sugar-Free Syrups
Coffee is a must when traveling — but I love flavor without the sugar! I bring a few of my Jordan’s Skinny Syrups in travel-size bottles for quick, guilt-free flavor options wherever I go.

3. Portable Ninja Blender & Frother
These are game-changers for making protein coffee, shakes, or even quick smoothies right in the hotel room. My frother takes up almost no space and gives me that coffee shop feel every morning!

4. Vitamins & Medications
Routine is key. I pack a weekly pill organizer with all my bariatric vitamins and any medications, so I never miss a day — even with a busy travel schedule.

5. Protein Snacks
A few go-to travel snacks like protein bars, jerky, or low-carb cheese crisps help me avoid airport temptations and stay satisfied between meals.

🌟 Tips for Staying on Track While Traveling

  • Plan ahead: Bring what you know works for you instead of hoping to find it on the road.
  • Hydrate often: Flights, long drives, and salty snacks can sneak up on you — keep a refillable water bottle handy.
  • Don’t stress perfection: Vacations are about balance — enjoy the experience, make mindful choices, and get back on track with your next meal.

💬 Final Thoughts

Traveling after bariatric surgery doesn’t mean leaving your healthy habits behind. With a little planning, you can feel confident, prepared, and ready to enjoy your vacation — protein shake in hand!

If you want to see exactly how I packed for my trip, check out my YouTube video where I show all my bariatric-friendly travel essentials! 🎥