The holiday season is a time to indulge in festive treats and drinks. But it’s easy to go overboard and gain a few extra pounds. If you’re one of the many people looking to lose some holiday weight, you’re in luck.

Here are 30 smart tips for losing those extra holiday pounds and getting back on track to a healthy lifestyle.

1. Drink Water Before Meals

Drinking water before a meal can help you eat less. It’s a good way to trick your body into feeling full before you’ve even started eating.

2. Use Smaller Plates

Using smaller plates can help you eat less. It’s another way to trick your brain into thinking you’re eating more than you actually are.

3. Eat More Protein

Protein helps you feel full for longer periods of time. Try to incorporate more protein into your meals to help you eat less overall.

4. Avoid Processed Foods

Processed foods are often high in calories, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Opt for whole foods instead, which are more nutrient-dense and better for your overall health.

5. Find Exercise You Enjoy

Not everyone enjoys the same type of exercise. Find something you enjoy doing, whether it’s dancing, hiking, or weightlifting, and make it a regular part of your routine.

6. Practice Mindful Eating

Mindful eating involves paying attention to what you’re eating and how your body feels while you’re eating. This can help you eat less and make healthier choices overall.

7. Use a Food Diary

Keeping a food diary can help you become more aware of what you’re eating and how much you’re eating. This can help you make healthier choices and avoid overeating.

8. Get Enough Sleep

Lack of sleep has been linked to weight gain and cravings for unhealthy foods. Aim for at least 7 hours of sleep per night to help keep your metabolism functioning properly.

9. Eat Slowly

Eating slowly can help you feel full faster and avoid overeating. Take your time and enjoy each bite.

10. Don’t Skip Meals

Skipping meals can lead to overeating later on in the day. Try to eat regular meals and snacks throughout the day to keep your metabolism functioning properly.

11. Use Spices Instead of Salt

Using spices instead of salt can help reduce your sodium intake, which is important for overall health. Plus, spices can add flavor and make your meals more enjoyable.

12. Eat More Fiber

Fiber can help you feel full for longer periods of time and improve digestion. Try to incorporate more fiber-rich foods into your meals, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.

13. Avoid Sugary Drinks

Sugary drinks are high in calories and can lead to weight gain. Stick to water, unsweetened tea, and black coffee instead.

14. Choose Healthy Snacks

Healthy snacks can help you avoid overeating later on. Opt for snacks that are high in protein and fiber, such as fruits, nuts, and whole grain crackers.

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15. Don’t Keep Unhealthy Food in the House

It’s harder to resist temptation if unhealthy foods are readily available. Stock your house with healthy options instead.

16. Get Moving

Exercise doesn’t have to be formal. Find ways to move more throughout the day, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or going for a walk during your lunch break.

17. Be Mindful of Portion Sizes

Portion sizes have grown significantly in recent years. Be mindful of how much you’re eating and aim for appropriate portion sizes.

18. Cook at Home

Cooking meals at home gives you more control over what you’re eating. Plus, it’s often less expensive than eating out.

19. Choose Lean Protein

Choose lean protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, fish, and tofu, instead of fatty cuts of meat.

20. Use Healthy Cooking Methods

Healthy cooking methods, such as grilling, baking, and steaming, require less fat and can help reduce overall calorie intake.

21. Focus on How You Feel

Instead of focusing on the number on the scale, focus on how you feel. Taking care of your overall health should be the priority.

22. Have a Plan for Eating Out

Eating out can be a challenge when trying to lose weight. Have a plan in place for making healthier choices before you go.

23. Don’t Eat Out of Boredom or Stress

Many people turn to food as a way to cope with boredom or stress. Find other ways to manage these emotions, such as exercise, hobbies, or meditation.

24. Don’t Drink Your Calories

Alcoholic beverages and sugary drinks can add hundreds of extra calories to your diet. Stick to water or other low-calorie options.

25. Use a Smaller Fork or Spoon

Using a smaller fork or spoon can help you eat less overall. It forces you to take smaller bites and eat slower.

26. Incorporate Resistance Training

Resistance training can help build muscle mass and boost your metabolism. Try to incorporate weightlifting or bodyweight exercises into your routine.

27. Get Support

Losing weight can be challenging, but having support can make it easier. Find a workout buddy or join a support group to help keep you motivated.

28. Focus on Whole Foods

Whole foods are more nutrient-dense and better for your overall health than processed foods. Aim to make whole foods the focus of your diet.

29. Be Patient

Weight loss takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately.

30. Celebrate Your Successes

Take time to celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may be. It will help keep you motivated and on track.