Christmas is a time filled with joy, love, and lots of delicious food. From festive cookies to hearty roasts, it can be tempting to indulge in all the holiday treats.

However, the holiday season doesn’t have to mean overindulging and packing on the pounds. With a few simple strategies, you can enjoy the holiday season while still eating healthy and avoiding the dreaded “Festive 15.” Here are our top tips for staying on track this Christmas.

1. Plan Ahead

One of the keys to eating healthy during the holiday season is planning ahead. Take some time to create a meal plan for the week, including both holiday meals and regular days. This will help you stay organized and focused on your health goals.

2. Control Your Portions

It’s easy to overeat during the Christmas season, but it’s important to keep an eye on your portion sizes. Use smaller plates and bowls to help control your portions and prevent overeating.

Fill half your plate with vegetables, one-quarter with lean protein, and one-quarter with whole grains or starchy vegetables.

3. Don’t Skip Meals

Skipping meals in an attempt to “save calories” for a big holiday feast can actually lead to overeating. Instead, stick to your regular eating routine and have a balanced breakfast and lunch.

This will help keep your blood sugar stable and prevent excessive hunger, which can lead to overindulgence.

4. Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is important all year round, but it’s especially crucial during the holiday season. Sometimes when we feel hungry, we are actually just thirsty.

Keep a water bottle with you at all times and aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.

5. Choose Healthy Snacks

When the snack table is filled with tempting treats, it’s easy to reach for the unhealthy options. Instead, opt for healthier snacks like fruit kebabs, vegetable crudités with hummus, or a handful of nuts.

These options are not only delicious but also provide important nutrients to keep you feeling satisfied.

6. Fill Up on Fiber

Fiber is an essential nutrient that helps regulate digestion and keeps you feeling full. Fill your plate with high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.

These foods not only provide important nutrients but also help curb your appetite and prevent overeating.

7. Practice Mindful Eating

During the holiday season, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos and mindlessly munch on snacks. Practice mindful eating by slowing down and savoring each bite. Pay attention to the flavors, textures, and smells of your food.

This can help you eat more slowly, recognize when you’re full, and truly enjoy your meal.

8. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Alcoholic beverages can be high in calories and can also impair your judgment when it comes to food choices.

Limit your alcohol consumption and opt for lower-calorie options like light beer, wine spritzers, or mocktails made with soda water and fresh fruit.

9. Get Moving

Physical activity is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, and it can also help offset some of the extra calories consumed during the holidays. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week.

Go for a brisk walk, try a new exercise class, or engage in a festive activity like ice skating or sledding.

10. Indulge in Moderation

While it’s important to make mostly healthy choices during the holiday season, it’s also okay to indulge in your favorite treats from time to time. Allow yourself to enjoy a small portion of your favorite dessert or a special holiday dish.

Just remember to savor each bite and be mindful of portion sizes.