Family Encyclopedia >> Food

10 tips to avoid gaining weight during the holidays

The holiday season is just around the corner and that means especially good food. We forget about good eating habits for a while and we also stop exercising, which results in unwanted weight gain. With a little self-control and a few simple tweaks to your traditional approach, you can still enjoy all the partying without sabotaging your weight. With the tips below you can maintain a healthy weight and still enjoy it.

1. Eat breakfast. Instead of waiting for the big meal, eat a small but healthy breakfast in the morning so you don't feel hungry at dinner. Eat protein-rich foods such as low-fat yogurt.

2. Don't brag too much. Take smaller portions and fill your plate with plenty of fruits and vegetables.

3. Avoid unhealthy dishes. Don't eat too many, or rather none, fatty dishes, but replace them with the more healthy options on the table.

4. Eliminate sweets. Forget pies and other sweets, and enjoy the natural sweetness of a sweet potato.

5. Get enough sleep. If you sleep less than six hours a night, you will crave starchy, sugary foods.

6. Limit carbohydrates. Festive meals usually have a lot of carbohydrates, so try to reduce them.

7. Enjoy the dessert. Look for dessert recipes that are low in calories and a healthier choice.

8. Choose between alcohol or dessert. Choose either alcohol or dessert, but not both. That way you take in fewer calories. And remember, moderation is key.

9. Prepare less food. The more you cook, the more you'll have left, which will keep you eating for days afterward. Cook less to avoid this.

10. Forget the leftovers. A meal does not immediately make you gain weight, but it does if you continue to eat the leftovers for days afterwards. Limit the number of dishes you prepare or do not take anything with you when you eat with others.