Your work trips could be adding to your waistline

You’re likely to be eating an extra 1,000 calories a day when on work trips, according to new research.

A new study has found that healthy eating goes out the window for the majority when they are out and about away from the safety of the kitchen a fridge full of fruit, veg and healthy options.

Almost two thirds of the 2,000 people surveyed admitted to gaining weight on a trip away from home. And a further third of adults who are regularly ‘on-the-go’ confessed to increasing their calorie intake to 3,000 calories or more a day. Three quarters confessed to overeating and dinner is the meal they are most likely to overindulge at, with the research also finding women are more likely to gorge themselves than men.

The study also found that eating on-the-go and a lack of home-cooked meals are the main causes for over indulging while on holiday or business. Furthermore it emerged more than half wished they could eat more domestic comfort meals while staying at hotels.

Raul Ortiz, VP of global brand marketing for Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites at IHG, which carried out the study, said: “Our research clearly shows Brits miss home-cooked, fresh meal choices while travelling. Our guests are often away from home for days or weeks at a time and we want to give them the option to cook for themselves as if they were in the comfort of their own home.”

British chef and television food presenter, Matt Tebbutt, has teamed up with Staybridge Suites to create ‘Tastes of Home’ – easy, home-cooked recipes which guests can cook while staying at the hotel. He said: “As someone who is constantly on the road, I know how easy it is to overindulge when you’re eating out every day and night. That’s why I’m thrilled to partner with Staybridge Suites to bring their guests quick, easy and tasty recipes that they can enjoy from the comfort of their suite.

“I’ve created variations on some of the nation’s favourites, including a healthier Fish and Chips, a unique twist on a traditional Spaghetti Bolognese, and a mouth-watering Ditalini pasta dish with poached chicken and a tarragon dressing. I can’t wait for guests to give them a try.”

The study also found the fear of not having home comforts leads to some travellers bringing their own food items along on the trip. Being a nation of tea lovers, a quarter keep their own stash of teabags in their luggage to ensure their brews are exactly how they like them. One in nine ensure they have packets of crisps on hand and one in 10 keep cereals tucked away.

Ortiz added: “While staying at Staybridge Suites, guests have access to a spacious, fully equipped kitchen with all the utensils they need, and thanks to Matt’s recipes, they can now enjoy a new take on a ‘Taste of Home’ even when they’re on the road.”

For more information and to check out Matt’s recipes, head to www.staybridge.com/tastesofhome.