The holiday season is a time to relax, enjoy good food, and celebrate with loved ones. However, it can also be a time when people struggle to maintain their weight and stay healthy.

With so many tempting treats and festive feasts on offer, it’s easy to overindulge and undo all the good work of the year. Luckily, there are plenty of simple strategies and tips to help you avoid holiday weight gain without missing out on the fun. Here are 10 of the best:.

1. Start the day right

Dieters often skip breakfast in an attempt to save calories, but this can backfire later in the day. When you wake up, your body needs fuel to kickstart your metabolism and set you up for the day ahead.

Opt for a healthy breakfast that includes protein, fiber, and whole grains, such as oatmeal, Greek yogurt, or eggs. This will help you feel fuller for longer and prevent you from snacking on sugary treats later in the day.

2. Stay active

Staying active is key to avoiding holiday weight gain. Not only does exercise burn calories, but it also helps to reduce stress and improve your mood.

Try to build in some extra activity to your routine during the holiday season, such as going for a walk after meals or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. You could also try joining a fitness class or signing up for a fun run to keep you motivated.

3. Don’t drink your calories

Alcoholic drinks, soda, and other sweetened beverages are some of the biggest culprits when it comes to holiday weight gain.

Not only do they pack in extra calories, but they also contain sugar and other additives that can leave you feeling bloated and tired. Try to limit your intake of these drinks by opting for water, unsweetened tea, or seltzer with a slice of lime. If you do want to indulge in a festive cocktail, stick to one or two and make sure to balance them out with plenty of water.

4. Be mindful of portion sizes

Portion sizes can quickly spiral out of control during the holiday season, especially when there are buffets and family-style meals on offer. To avoid overindulging, try to stick to smaller portions and take your time when eating.

Start with a small serving and see how you feel before going back for more. You could also try using smaller plates and bowls to trick your brain into thinking you are eating more than you actually are.

5. Make healthy swaps

Many traditional holiday dishes are high in fat, sugar, and calories, but this doesn’t mean you have to miss out. You can make healthier swaps to many recipes without sacrificing flavor.

For example, you could use applesauce instead of butter in your baking, swap mashed cauliflower for mashed potatoes, or use Greek yogurt instead of cream in your dips and dressings. Get creative in the kitchen and experiment with healthy alternatives to your favorite dishes.

6. Plan ahead

Planning ahead is essential when it comes to avoiding holiday weight gain. If you know you have a big event or meal coming up, try to make healthy choices in the days leading up to it.

You could also offer to bring a healthy dish to share, so you know there will be something nutritious on offer. If you are going out to eat, try to look up the menu beforehand and choose a healthy option in advance.

7. Practice mindful eating

Mindful eating is all about being present in the moment and fully enjoying your food. It can help you to recognize when you are full and prevent you from overeating.

To practice mindful eating, try to sit down at a table without distractions and focus on your food. Chew slowly and savor each bite, paying attention to the texture, flavor, and aroma of the food. Try to avoid eating while standing, driving, or watching TV, as these distractions can cause you to overeat without even realizing it.

8. Get enough sleep

Getting enough sleep is crucial for overall health and weight management. Lack of sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate hunger and metabolism, leading to increased appetite and weight gain.

Try to aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night, and establish a regular sleep routine to help your body get into a healthy rhythm. This could include winding down with a relaxing activity before bed, such as reading or taking a warm bath.

9. Don’t deprive yourself

Depriving yourself of your favorite holiday foods is not sustainable or realistic. Instead of completely cutting out your favorite treats, try to enjoy them in moderation.

Allow yourself a small serving of your favorite dessert or appetizer, and savor every bite. By allowing yourself to enjoy the foods you love, you are less likely to feel deprived and more likely to maintain a healthy balance.

10. Stay positive

Maintaining a positive mindset is essential for successful weight management. The holiday season can be stressful and overwhelming, but it’s important to focus on the positive aspects and celebrate your progress.

Try to set realistic goals and be patient with yourself. Remember that healthy habits take time to develop, and setbacks are part of the journey. By staying positive and focused on your goals, you can avoid holiday weight gain and maintain your health and fitness.