The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be a time of indulgence and overeating. With all the delicious food and festive drinks around, it’s easy to lose track of your diet and pack on a few pounds.

However, with a little planning and self-discipline, you can enjoy the holidays without sabotaging your health and fitness goals. Here are ten tips to help you stay on track and avoid gaining weight during the holidays:.

1. Don’t Skip Meals

It’s tempting to skip meals to save room for the holiday feast, but doing so can actually backfire. When you’re hungry, you’re more likely to overeat and make poor food choices.

Instead, eat small, healthy meals throughout the day to keep your metabolism humming and your cravings at bay.

2. Choose Wisely

At holiday gatherings, there are usually plenty of options to choose from. Rather than loading up on high-calorie treats and rich dishes, focus on the healthier options.

Load up your plate with veggies, lean protein, and whole grains, and limit your intake of foods that are high in fat and sugar.

3. Control Your Portions

Portion control is key when it comes to managing your weight. It’s okay to enjoy your favorite holiday foods, but try to keep your portions in check. Use a smaller plate, and avoid going back for seconds.

Listen to your body and stop eating when you’re satisfied, not stuffed.

4. Don’t Drink Your Calories

Holiday drinks like eggnog, hot cocoa, and apple cider can be loaded with sugar and calories. Instead of drinking your calories, opt for water or other low-calorie beverages. If you do indulge in a festive drink, try to limit yourself to one serving.

5. Stay Active

Exercise is important year-round, but it’s especially crucial during the holiday season. Staying active can help you burn off some of those extra calories and boost your mood and energy levels.

Try to fit in some physical activity each day, whether it’s a brisk walk, a yoga class, or a workout at the gym.

6. Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is important for good health and can also help you maintain a healthy weight. Staying hydrated can help you feel fuller, so you’re less likely to overeat.

Aim to drink at least eight cups of water a day, and more if you’re exercising or sweating a lot.

7. Plan Ahead

If you’re attending a holiday party or event, have a plan in place before you go. Decide ahead of time what you will eat, and stick to your plan. If you’re bringing a dish to share, make it a healthy option that you know you’ll enjoy.

8. Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep is important for good health and can also help you maintain a healthy weight. When you’re sleep-deprived, your body produces more of the hormone ghrelin, which can increase your appetite and lead to overeating.

Aim to get seven to eight hours of sleep each night.

9. Practice Mindful Eating

Mindful eating is the practice of paying attention to your food, savoring each bite, and eating with intention. When you’re mindful, you’re less likely to overeat or make poor food choices.

Try to eat slowly, without distractions, and focus on the flavors and textures of your food.