The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and food. It’s easy to get caught up in the festivities and overindulge, which can lead to unwanted weight gain.

However, with the right strategies in place, you can keep the pounds off and still enjoy all the holiday treats.

1. Set Realistic Goals

It’s important to have a plan in place before the holiday season arrives. Set realistic goals for yourself and decide how you want to approach the season.

You might decide to maintain your weight and focus on healthy eating habits, or you might aim to lose a few pounds during the holidays.

2. Keep a Food Diary

Tracking what you eat can help you stay mindful of your food choices and portion sizes. Consider using a food diary app or writing down what you eat in a journal.

3. Exercise Portion Control

It’s easy to overindulge when there are so many delicious foods to choose from. One way to keep the pounds off is to practice portion control. Take small servings of your favorite holiday dishes and savor each bite.

4. Don’t Skip Meals

Skipping meals can actually lead to overeating later on. Aim to eat three meals a day, and include healthy snacks in between meals to keep your hunger in check.

5. Focus on Fruits and Vegetables

Make sure to incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables into your meals. They’re low in calories and high in nutrients, which can help you feel full and satisfied.

6. Choose Lean Protein

Lean protein sources such as chicken, turkey, and fish are a great choice during the holidays. They’ll help you feel full and satisfied without adding unwanted calories.

7. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Alcoholic drinks can be high in calories and can also lower your inhibitions, leading to overeating. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation.

8. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help you feel full and can also prevent dehydration. Aim to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day.

9. Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is key to maintaining a healthy weight. Lack of sleep can lead to overeating and can also affect your metabolism. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night.

10. Use Smaller Plates

Using smaller plates can help you eat less without feeling deprived. Your brain will perceive a full plate, even if it’s a smaller size.

11. Stay Active

Physical activity is important for maintaining a healthy weight. Make sure to continue exercising throughout the holiday season. This can be as simple as taking a brisk walk with family and friends after dinner.

12. Plan Ahead

Planning ahead can help you avoid overeating. If you know you’re going to a holiday party later in the day, make sure to eat a healthy breakfast and lunch beforehand.

13. Control Your Environment

Controlling your environment can help you stay on track. For example, if you know there will be tempting snacks at a holiday party, bring your own healthy snacks to share.

14. Eat Mindfully

Take the time to savor your food and eat mindfully. This means paying attention to your hunger and fullness cues and taking time to enjoy each bite.

15. Avoid Trigger Foods

Everyone has trigger foods that can lead to overeating. Make a list of your trigger foods and avoid them during the holiday season.

16. Practice Self-Care

Self-care is important for maintaining a healthy weight. Make sure to take time for yourself throughout the holiday season, whether it’s taking a relaxing bath or practicing yoga.

17. Choose Healthy Snacks

Healthy snacks can help you stay on track during the holiday season. Try snacking on fruits, vegetables, or nuts instead of sugary treats.

18. Cook Your Own Meals

Cooking your own meals can give you control over the ingredients and can also be a fun way to get into the holiday spirit. Find healthy recipes online and get creative in the kitchen.

19. Use Substitutions

There are plenty of healthy substitutions you can make in your favorite holiday recipes. For example, you can use applesauce instead of oil in baking recipes.

20. Stay Positive

Staying positive can help you stay motivated and on track. Don’t beat yourself up if you slip up, just get back on track and keep moving forward.

21. Get Support

Having a support system can make all the difference in maintaining a healthy weight. Lean on friends and family for support and motivation.

22. Keep Healthy Snacks on Hand

Keeping healthy snacks on hand can help you resist the temptation to indulge in unhealthy treats. Pack snacks like carrots and hummus or apple slices and almond butter for when you’re on the go.

23. Indulge in Moderation

It’s okay to indulge in your favorite holiday treats, but do so in moderation. Allow yourself a small serving of your favorite dessert without going overboard.

24. Stay Accountable

Staying accountable to your goals can help you stay on track. Consider working with a dietitian or nutritionist to help you stay accountable and stay motivated.

25. Find Healthy Options at Parties

Look for healthy options at holiday parties, such as fruit trays or vegetable platters. Keep an eye on your portion sizes and focus on healthy options.

26. Avoid Late-Night Snacking

Late-night snacking can lead to overeating and can also affect your sleep. Try to avoid snacking after dinner and make sure to get a good night’s sleep.

27. Don’t Obsess Over the Scale

Remember that weight fluctuates and that it’s okay to have days where you indulge a little more. Don’t obsess over the scale and focus on maintaining healthy habits over the long term.

28. Keep Healthy Habits Year-Round

Maintaining a healthy weight is a year-round endeavor. Keep up with healthy habits even after the holiday season is over to ensure long-term success.

29. Reward Yourself

When you reach a milestone or achieve a goal, reward yourself with something non-food related, such as a massage or a new book. This can help you stay motivated and on track.

30. Have Fun!

At the end of the day, the holidays are a time to have fun and enjoy the company of loved ones. Don’t stress too much about your diet and focus on creating happy memories.