Jingle All the Weigh: How to Cut Calories During the Holidays

‘Tis the season to be holly, jolly and completely stuffed. Whether you have a tendency to pig out at the weekly company potluck or eat your weight in mashed potatoes at your family’s annual bash, there’s no getting around the fact that the average person consumes more than their normal amount of calories during the holiday season. But this is a tradition that doesn’t have to stick around. Use this simple guide to help navigate the holiday season in style—and in shape.

Rule #1: Bigger isn’t always better.

Resist the urge to fill your plate by, well, using a smaller plate. This is a really easy hack that keeps you from piling on the snacks, because there’s simply no room. (You’re on the honor system when it comes to getting seconds.)

Rule #2: Ditch the drink.

Okay, so maybe have one to take the edge off of those particularly painful family gatherings (you know the kind). But after your one celebratory libation, guzzle water instead of eggnog.

Rule #3: Pregame your meal.

With more food, that is. If you eat something light and healthy (read: a salad) before you go to a holiday party, you’re less likely to indulge when you arrive. This rule follows the same logic as not going grocery shopping when you haven’t eaten—if you’re hungry and in the presence of food, you’re going to want more of it than you probably need.

Rule #4: Hold yourself accountable.

Before the holidays officially start, step on the scale. Record your weight, and track it over the course of a month or two. If you force yourself to weigh in once or twice a week, you’ll be more aware of any holiday snacking repercussions.

Rule #5: Make no excuses.

The holiday season gets crazier every single year. But that’s no reason to slack on your fitness routine. Working out every day (even if it’s only for 15 minutes or so!) is the easiest way to burn calories, and fast. It’s a busy time of year, but if you stay committed to your fitness goals, you can carve time out of your schedule to exercise. Not only will this help you cut calories by reducing your cravings, but it will also help you burn them, too.

Rule #6: Say yes to dessert.

Yes, really. When you completely deprive yourself of what you want, there’s a stronger urge to fulfill the suppressed temptations. And the greater the desire, the more likely you are to struggle to keep your goals in check. So, go ahead. Eat the dessert. But make sure you indulge responsibly: Stick to three bites or less when tasting a dessert. That’s enough to satisfy your sweet tooth while still limiting your calorie intake.