-Don't wear elastic pants - especially at holiday parties. This will encourage overconsumption.
-Partner up with a date or a friend at holiday parties. Keep an eye on each other as to not overconsume or eat foods that you normally would not eat.
-Chew sugar-free gum or mints at all get-togethers so you won't overeat.
-Make the holidays about family, friends and rekindling friendships. Keep in mind what the holidays are all about: focus on the camaraderie with the folks you love - not on gorging yourself.
-Limit or avoid alcohol. Consumption of alcohol will lower inhibitions, lower your metabolic rate and cloud your judgment - all of which will likely result in excess eating.
-Don't miss workouts during the holiday season. Ultimately, schedule some extra workouts during these weeks.
-Work out ON the holidays. Celebrate the days with activity and movement. Don't be sedentary.
-Get at least 8-9 hours of restful sleep nightly. Sleep deprivation will cause cravings for excess sugar and starch. During these days you want to avoid cravings, since you will be encountering a lot more of these types of foods at parties and get-togethers.
-Position yourself away from the food at holiday parties.
-Eat BEFORE you go to parties, so you won't be hungry. And be sure not to skip meals during these weeks as this will also encourage overconsumption.
-If it's a potluck, bring something that you can eat.
-Eat sitting down, and eat slowly.
-Make a deal with yourself: I will not overconsume or eat foods that don't meet my standards for optimum health during the holiday season. Always set standards high for the "fuel" that you put in your body!
-Take one day, one holiday party at a time. If you happen to overindulge (which you won't!) once, then let that be and move on to the next day. Then regain your momentum for optimum choices.
-And keep in mind: it's all about choices. Make the right choices so you don't fall behind and have to play catch-up in January.