10 Proven Tips to Maintain Your Weight During the Holiday Season

L I T Wellness Solutions
1 day ago
3 min read

The holiday season often brings joy, family gatherings, and delicious food. Yet, it also comes with a common challenge: maintaining your weight. With tempting treats at every corner and busy schedules, staying on track can feel impossible. But it doesn’t have to be that way. By adopting practical habits, you can enjoy the festivities without sacrificing your health goals. Here are 10 proven tips to help you maintain your weight during the holiday season.

Eye-level view of a festive dining table with healthy holiday dishes and balanced portions — Healthy holiday meal with balanced portions

1. Plan Your Meals Ahead

Planning is key to avoiding impulsive eating. Before attending holiday parties or dinners, check the menu if possible. Decide what you want to eat and stick to it. Preparing a small, healthy snack before heading out can also prevent overeating when you arrive hungry.

Example: Eat a slice or two of cheese or a handful of nuts before a party to curb your appetite.

2. Control Portion Sizes

Holiday meals often come with large servings. Use smaller plates, such as a 9-11' lunch-size plate, to help control portions visually. Focus on filling half your plate with vegetables, a quarter with lean protein, and the remaining quarter with carbs.

Tip: Avoid going back for seconds immediately. Wait 10-15 minutes to see if you’re still hungry.

3. Choose Wisely Among Treats

Not all holiday foods are equal in calories and nutrition. Prioritize foods that bring you joy but are also nutrient-dense. For example, enjoy a small slice of pumpkin pie instead of multiple cookies.

Tip: Sample a little of your favorite treats rather than trying everything.

4. Stay Hydrated

Drinking water helps control hunger and supports digestion. Sometimes thirst is mistaken for hunger, leading to unnecessary snacking.

Tip: Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day, and drink a glass before meals. Be sure you are well-hydrated before a holiday function.

5. Keep Moving

Physical activity balances calorie intake and boosts mood. Even short walks after meals can aid digestion and prevent weight gain.

Example: Take a 20-minute walk after holiday dinners or engage in family-friendly activities like dancing or playing outside.

6. Limit Alcohol Intake

Alcoholic drinks add empty calories and can lower your inhibitions, leading to overeating. Choose lower-calorie options like wine or light beer, and alternate alcoholic drinks with water.

Tip: Set a limit before social events and stick to it.

7. Practice Mindful Eating

Focus on your food and savor each bite. Avoid distractions like TV or smartphones during meals. Mindful eating helps you recognize fullness cues and prevents overeating.

Tip: Eat slowly and put your fork down between bites, and try to make the meal last at least 15 minutes.

8. Don’t Skip Meals

Skipping meals to “save calories” for later often backfires, causing excessive hunger and overeating. Maintain regular meal times to keep your metabolism steady.

Example: Have a balanced breakfast even if you plan a big holiday dinner later.

9. Prepare Healthy Alternatives

If you’re hosting or bringing a dish, choose healthier recipes. Use less sugar, swap heavy creams for lighter options, and add more vegetables.

Example: Make mashed cauliflower instead of mashed potatoes or bake sweet potatoes with cinnamon instead of sugary desserts.

10. Set Realistic Goals and Be Kind to Yourself

The holidays are a time to enjoy life and connect with loved ones. Set achievable goals, like maintaining your current weight rather than losing weight. If you indulge more than planned, don’t dwell on it. Get back on track with your next meal.

Tip: Keep a journal to track your habits and reflect on what works best for you.