Can you enjoy the holidays with all the delicious food and festivities and still keep a healthy weight? Absolutely! The secret ingredients are determination and discipline. So it’s not really about whether it’s possible but about how to make it happen. Here are some tips on enjoying the holidays without packing on extra pounds.

**Eat Smart**

If you usually watch your calorie and fat intake, don’t use the holidays as an excuse to abandon your good habits. Experts say counting calories is a great way to lose and maintain weight, so keep track of what you eat, even during the festive season. You can still indulge in your favorite treats, but know your limits.

The challenge comes when you’re at parties surrounded by tempting treats like cakes and pastries. To handle this, try two strategies. First, eat at home before you go out. Fill up on fruits and vegetables—stick to your healthy routine. When you’re at the party, you’ll be less likely to overeat. If you still want to enjoy the party food, take small bites to satisfy your cravings without going overboard.

**Get Moving**

What if you indulge a bit more than usual? Don’t stress—just increase your physical activity to burn off those extra calories. If you typically work out for 30 minutes a day, add another 15 to 20 minutes to your routine.

You can also burn extra calories by doing house chores, which many people find interesting and effective. Did you know that two hours of cleaning your living room can burn around 200 calories? Washing your car does the same. If you still have holiday shopping to do, head to the mall and try on clothes—it’s a fun way to stay active and burn some calories.

In summary, you can avoid holiday weight gain with the right mindset. The trick is to stay determined and disciplined. If you want it enough, you can definitely achieve it!