We all know the holidays are the best time of year. There’s tons of social gatherings, parties, dinners, events, etc. etc. etc. We get in touch with our far away friends and family and let the ones nearby know how important they are.

What about that says let’s gain 10 lbs?!

We’ve pulled together these five tips to keeping things jolly, but keep your belly from shaking like a bowl full of jelly when you laugh.

1. EAT BREAKFAST. Just because there’s another get together tonight and you’re afraid of the oh-so-tempting and delicious spread or maybe that second (or third) glass of wine, it does not mean you should skip the earlier meals of the day to save your calories to indulge at night. Starting your day with breakfast will more than likely STOP you from having that second dessert. Why? You won’t be starving when you get to the event, so you’ll be able to make a rational decision about what you’re going to eat!
2. DO NOT get that Gingerbread Latte at Starbucks. Bubble burst: A tall has 190 calories, 5g of fat, 28g of Carbohydrate, and 9g of protein. That’s covering a pretty decent chunk of calories for a “coffee”? Don’t you think? Stick to the regular cup o’ joe. Have a candy cane later.
3. Park in those horribly distant spots at the mall. Yes. Do it. Christmas shopping does bring out everyone’s Grinch when it’s time to park, but those parking spots that seem miles away from the Macy’s entrance are going to help you burn off that Egg Nog! Walk it off.
4. Plan a “holiday theme” exercise day. Go pick out a Christmas tree at a nearby farm. It’s good to hike around a mountain and it is the only way to find the best one, you know? Head to the rink. Ice-skating is so fun! Most cities have at least one, indoor or outdoor and skates are usually there to rent.
5. Always portion your plate ½ vegetables, ¼ starch, ¼ protein. We all love those mashed potatoes, but trust us, the scale will thank us later for using the 50/25/25 plate rule!!!