As we all enter into another holiday season, we may find ourselves tempted. ‘Tis the season for turkey and all the fixings, party dips, eggnog and delicious desserts after all! Here are some tips to help you navigate this holiday season, without feeling guilty come the New Year.

Holiday weight-gain has long plagued dieters and health-nuts alike. Each year, we are all faced with a variety of get-togethers, all centred on food. Family meals, festive parties and baking – for many of us, many holiday memories are located in the kitchen. It has long been stated that people gain an average of 5-10 pounds over the holiday season – with an extra side of guilt! However, a recent study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that the average amount of weight gain is closer to a pound. Good news if one resumes healthy eating habits in the New Year. But, many people don’t notice this weight gain, and after 10-20 years, a pound a year catches up to them. So how can we continue to enjoy all the good foods of the holiday season without depriving ourselves or feeling guilty?

Don’t Skip – many people believe skipping meals leading up to a holiday party will help to avoid excess weight gain; however, the opposite often holds true. By skipping meals, one may be ravenous by the time of the party and it more apt to overeat. Instead, be sure to eat small healthy meals leading up to the event – even have a snack of fresh fruit right before you leave – this will help to avoid over-indulgence.

Size Matters – take small amounts of food with each pass through the buffet line. Instead of filling a dinner-plate, use a dessert or side plate to eat your food. Also, fill up on fresh veggies and dip, and take only small amounts of higher-fat items (such as sausage rolls, deep-fried hors d’oeuvres and heavy sauces or dips).

Take Your Time – take small bites and eat your snacks and meals slowly. By doing this you will fill up faster, and will be less likely to over-indulge.

Insert Water – many holiday beverages are high in calories. Be wise when selecting your beverages, both alcoholic and otherwise, and make sure to drink water in between each refill.

Mingle – the point of a holiday gathering is about visiting family and friends, food is simply a trapping of the event. Avoid standing next to the food table, and be sure to keep yourself busy by catching up with other guests. And don’t forget, your mother taught you not to talk with your mouth full. By staying in conversations you’ll have less time to put more food in your mouth.

Plan Ahead – don’t count on dieting and exercising in the New Year. Instead, focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle during the holiday season. Keep exercise a priority – and even invite other family members to join you. Walk through your neighbourhood to enjoy the decor, or schedule gym time on your calendar. By keeping focused on a healthy lifestyle throughout the year, you will have more success in maintaining your weight and health.

Be the Change – if you are attending a pot-luck, bring a healthy alternative for you and other guests to enjoy. Substitute low-fat alternatives into traditional holiday recipes, such as plain yogurt instead of sour cream, or dark chocolate for milk chocolate.

Satisfy Your Cravings – let yourself enjoy the season! Don’t avoid the one food you are really craving. Instead of snacking on a variety of your favourite foods or desserts, take a small portion of the one you want the most, and savour each bite!

The holidays need not be about over-indulgence and guilt. Instead, take the steps necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle throughout the season. A party is much more fun when you enjoy the time with family and friends, instead of counting calories and feeling guilty for what you’ve eaten. By following these suggestions, you’ll be able to navigate holiday parties with ease – and still fit into your skinny jeans in the New Year.

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