This is How Much Weight The Average Person Gains on Vacation

Going on a one- to three-week vacation could put adults at risk for gaining dangerous weight around the midsection, according to a new University of Georgia study.

Researchers found that, on average, Americans gain about one pound during their vacation trips - which is an alarming statistic given that the average adult gains about 1-2 pounds per year.

"If you're only gaining a pound or two a year and you gained three-quarters of that on a one- to three-week vacation, that's a pretty substantial weight gain during a short period of time," said Jamie Cooper, study leader and professor in the university's department of food and nutrition.

Creeping obesity

According to Cooper, most vacationers aren't diligent about weighing themselves before and after vacation. An extra pound, therefore, won't be noticeable to many people. This type of "creeping obesity," however, is a common pattern that sets people up to continue gaining small amounts of weight over long periods of time.

The biggest culprit for vacation weight gain? Calories from alcohol, the study reports. Before vacation, the average consumption of alcoholic drinks per week was eight, while during vacation this shot up to an average of 16 for study participants.

The study also found, however, that people were overall more active, less stressed and had lower blood pressure while on vacation. The improved blood pressure even lasted six weeks after vacation, researchers found.

"Whether or not those positive changes in blood pressure and stress can overcome the negative health implications of gaining weight on vacation are yet to be determined," Cooper said.

Source: University of Georgia