The holiday season is challenging for everyone when it comes to avoiding weight gain. Staying on track can seem impossible with trays of sweets everywhere you look and holidays parties every weekend. But you can make it through the holidays without gaining weight, simply by following my top 5 tips to avoid weight gain. My tips will give you an advantage at New Year’s when you can make resolutions to save for a trip or learn to dance, instead of resolving to lose weight.

EXERCISE IN THE MORNING

During the holidays, it’s easy to skip exercise when you work late and have a party to get too, unless you exercise first thing in the morning. Exercising in the morning not only gives you more energy for your day, it also helps to boost your metabolism to help you burn fat throughout the day. Whether you walk the dog, go for a run or hit the gym, morning exercise will keep you on track for weight maintenance during the holidays.

STAY HYDRATED

Drinking half your body weight in fluid ounces of water each and every day will not only help your body flush out toxins, it will help you to maintain and even lose weight during the holidays, especially if you drink water before meals. Staying properly hydrated reduces hunger cravings and overeating, which is really important with all the delectable holiday treats that can tempt even those with the strongest willpower.

EAT MORE FIBER

Sweets and rich decadent holiday meals aren’t particularly known for their high fiber content, so make sure you get enough fiber is crucial during the holidays. Fiber-rich foods not only make you feel full longer, they also keep your metabolism functioning properly. Eating lots of fresh fruit, vegetables, leafy greens and whole grains will help you to avoid feeling bloated and gaining weight.

EAT MORE PROTEIN AND FAT

When loading up your plate at holiday meals focus on lean proteins and healthy fats and avoid starchy vegetables, white rice, breads and foods loaded with sugar. When you eat more protein and healthy fat you’ll not only be providing your body with the essential nutrients it needs, you’ll also feel less hungry and be less tempted to overindulge in the sweets.

BE A PICKY EATER

One of the most fun things about the holidays is trying a bite or 10 of every dish or sweet on the table, but part of being healthy is being a picky eater. Chose a small plate and skip taste testing foods and sweets that you don’t really enjoy. Instead, enjoy a modest portion of your favorite indulgences. When you are a picky eater you don’t over consume calories and so you can enjoy your favorite cake, cookies or other holiday treats without putting yourself at risk for weight gain.

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