The holiday season is a time for celebrating with loved ones, reminiscing about the year, and indulging in all sorts of delicious treats. Unfortunately, all that celebrating and indulging can quickly derail even the most dedicated diet plans.

But don’t fret! With a little bit of planning and some smart strategies, you can stay on track with your diet goals and still enjoy all the festivities.

1. Plan ahead

The key to staying on track with your diet during the holidays is to plan ahead. Before you attend any holiday parties or events, take some time to review the menu and plan out your food choices.

Look for dishes that are lower in calories and avoid those that are high in fat or sugar.

2. Don’t arrive hungry

One of the biggest traps people fall into during the holidays is arriving at a party or event hungry. When you’re hungry, you’re much more likely to overeat or make poor food choices.

Eat a small meal or snack before you leave home to avoid this trap.

3. Focus on protein and vegetables

When you’re selecting food at a holiday event, focus on foods that are high in protein and vegetables. These will help keep you full and satisfied, without loading up on extra calories.

Look for vegetable crudites, lean protein sources like shrimp or chicken, and salads or soup.

4. Watch your alcohol intake

Alcohol is both high in calories and can disrupt your inhibitions, making it easier to indulge in high-calorie food choices. Stick to lower-calorie options like wine, light beer or spirits mixed with low-calorie mixers like soda water.

5. Limit your portions

You don’t need to deprive yourself of holiday treats, but you should limit your portions. Instead of filling your plate, take small servings of your favorite dishes. This will allow you to enjoy the taste without going overboard on calories.

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6. Make mindful food choices

When faced with a buffet of tempting choices, it’s easy to just give in and indulge. Try to make mindful food choices, by taking the time to really think about what you’re eating and why.

Ask yourself if the dish you’re considering is really worth the extra calories, or if you can find a healthier alternative.

7. Keep moving

Exercise is key to maintaining a healthy diet during the holidays. Even if you’re short on time, try to sneak in a quick workout before or after events. Walking is also a great way to burn off any extra calories and reduce stress.

8. Stay hydrated

Drinking enough water is essential to any diet plan, but it’s especially important during the holidays. Not only will water help keep you full and satisfied, but it can also help alleviate cravings for sugary or high-calorie treats.

Plus, staying hydrated will help keep your skin looking healthy and glowing.

9. Host your own healthy party

If you’re worried about sticking to your diet during holiday events, why not host your own healthy party? You can control the menu and serve up healthier versions of your favorite dishes.

Plus, you’ll be setting a good example for your friends and family by showing them that healthy choices can still be delicious.

10. Remember, it’s just one day

Finally, it’s important to remember that a few indulgences on one day will not derail your diet progress. If you happen to have a day where you overindulge, don’t beat yourself up about it.

Just get back on track the next day and keep moving forward with your diet goals.