With winter rearing it’s chilly head our direction, it’s easy to get caught up in the holiday spirit—but with the fun or wrapping presents, going ice skating and building snowmen comes Christmas feasts, bowls of chocolates and (dun, dun, dun!) unhealthy holiday parties.  Although holiday parties are a great chance to get together with colleagues, friends and family members, they also tend to be extremely…well…fattening. If you’re on a diet or going through a lifestyle change, holiday parties can be dreadful—think of all the temptations!  During a time when the four major food groups are thought to be “candy, candy canes, candy corn and syrup”, it’s tough to stay away from all of the holiday treats.

No need to fear the temptations during holiday parties! To help you, we’ve provided some tips that will allow you to go to all of the parties you want and still maintain the lifestyle you’ve work so hard to achieve!

1.      Eat before the party

You don’t have to eat to enjoy the party! After all, you’re there to celebrate the company of others, not participate in an eating contest. Stick to your diet by eating what’s right for you before the party.  That way, you won’t be hungry or feel tempted to eat the goodies at the party. If for some reason you find yourself a bit hungry during the party, find the veggie platter (but skip the dip!).  Remember: food does not equal fun!!!

2.      Be active

Burn some extra calories at the holiday party by dancing or playing a game like charades that requires you to move. Parties don’t have to consist of sitting on the couch all night!

3.      Go easy on alcohol

Eliminating alcohol during the holiday party is the only way to stay on your transformation path. Consuming alcohol will add to your daily calorie intake, plus it has no nutritional value (and way too much sugar!). You don’t need alcohol to have a good time. But if you’re in the “maintenance” phase of your weight loss transformation, it’s okay to have a glass of white mixed with club soda and a lemon.

4.      Don’t be ashamed to bring your own food

Most holiday parties only last a couple of hours, so if you eat before and eat after, you can stay on track. But if that doesn’t work, bring your own snacks or even your own meal with you! Who cares if people ask questions—when they see how hot you look in your outfit, they will be interested in what you are doing!!!

5.      Do what’s right for you

Regardless of the situation, you know what’s right for you and your lifestyle. You’ve worked hard to get to where you are today.  Although one party isn’t going to ruin your progress, it could make you take a few steps back.  Do what’s best for you and your body and your transformation will be a success.

All in all, it’s important to not use the holidays as an excuse to eat and drink excessively. Parties are meant to be a medium where people can reconnect and celebrate having each other in their lives—not compete in an eating contest!! When people reflect on the company holiday party what would you rather have them talk about; how great you look or how intoxicated you got?  That’s what we thought!!!