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Do you find yourself turning into Santa Claus this holiday season, devouring every delicious treat in sight? The food is one of the best parts of the holidays, but unfortunately, it’s also the nemesis of your health goals. Here are some ways you can enjoy sweets while still maintaining your weight.

Make Every Treat Count

You’ll likely have numerous opportunities to eat sugary goods and fatty foods this season, so don’t feel pressured to indulge every time. Go for the treats you only get this time of year instead of the junk you can eat any day. Choose the refreshments that you absolutely love and skip the ones that are just okay.

Remember to stay mindful while you eat, too. It’s easy to stuff down dessert after dessert while chatting with loved ones or watching a funny holiday movie. Give all your attention to eating so you can savor every bite, stay aware of what and how much you’re eating, and recognize when you’re full.

Eat Beforehand

Going to a holiday party on an empty stomach only leads to disaster. Eat a meal or snack high in fiber or protein so you don’t try filling up on empty calories that never leave you satisfied. If dinner or hors d’oeuvres will be served, drink a couple glasses of water instead. Either way, drink lots of water throughout, as well, to keep from getting bloated.

Share Treats

Are your friends, family, and girlfriend gifting you with cookies, candies, bread, and other yummy Christmas food? You don’t have to eat it all, whether out of politeness or gluttony. Invite neighbors to join you, take treats to work to share with colleagues and customers, or pass them along to others who would appreciate them.

Prioritize Exercising

This may be a busy time of year, but don’t use that excuse to put your exercise regimen on hold. Add an extra day into your weekly routine or lengthen each session by 10 to 15 minutes to make up for the additional calories.

Make good use of the physical activities available, too. Dance at parties, go ice skating or sledding, or walk around the mall. Just keep yourself moving and you shouldn’t find your clothes fitting too tightly at the end of the month.

Tags: christmas, christmas food, Exercise, hannukah, Health, healthy eating, holiday food, holiday health, holidays, weight