The holidays can be a real test of willpower for those who are struggling with their weight. And nothing can hijack this season of joy like worrying about overindulging.

The good news is there are ways you can savor the culinary delights of the holidays and still be healthy. When you face daily food temptations, keep calm and plan to be a bit more flexible this time of year. Here are some tips for nourishing your body while joining in on the festivities.

1. Bring a Best-for-You Food

Think about bringing your own healthy dish to a gathering to ensure you have something to indulge in. This might be a hot soup to be eaten as a first course. Just be sure to make it broth-based rather than cream-based. Or, swap out low-fat dairy in place of full-fat products to make a healthier version of your favorite soup. This easy step alone can reduce calories and saturated fat without sacrificing taste and satisfaction. It will also help you avoid overeating during the main course.

2. Fill Your Plate with Fewer Calories

You can enjoy a full plate of food when it consists of leafy green salads, vegetable dishes, and lean proteins (chicken and fish), and includes smaller portions of richer options. By the time you fill up on protein and a side of vegetables, you’ll eat less in the way of empty carbs. Beware though, not all holiday vegetables are healthy options — for example, green bean casserole and yams drenched in marshmallows.Try to avoid foods that are fried or cooked in oil or butter, and skip heavily sugared or carbonated drinks. A good strategy is to reduce things like sugar load and saturated fats to promote a fat-burning metabolism. That way, you can eat a larger amount of food for fewer calories and not feel deprived.

3. Reach for Water

When the weather is cold and dry, it’s important to stay hydrated. Being hydrated curbs sugar cravings and often prevents overeating. But what drink you reach for is just as important. If you notice a craving for junk food, use that feeling as a trigger to first reach for a full glass of water. Then, re-assess your craving before indulging.Alcohol can lessen inhibitions and lead to poor eating choices. Try to choose low to no sugar drinks to cut down on calories and carbs. A wine spritzer (wine and club soda mix) is a great way to slow alcohol consumption and reduce sugar intake.

4. Replace White with Wheat

Rolls and breads are often in abundance at holiday dinner tables but they can be chock-full of unhealthy fiber. Eating whole-grain wheat products in place of white carbohydrates will provide additional fiber and nutrients, and keep you feeling fuller longer.

5. Stash Healthy Snacks at the Office

Communal office goodies this time of year can really take you off your game. Before you allow yourself a splurge, try eating something healthy like a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts (and then walk around the office for five minutes or climb a few flights of stairs).Plan on taking office-time tempts home with you and delaying the indulgence until just before bedtime. At that point, you will be less likely to crave another treat immediately than you would during your afternoon coffee break, especially if more of the treat isn’t in sight.

6. Choose Your Indulgences Wisely

Rather than inhaling four sugar cookies at the office luncheon, allow yourself one as a dessert treat. Then make a little switch later in the day to account for those extra calories. Maybe skip that mid-afternoon latte or afternoon snack. And instead of wasting calories on foods that you can have at any time of the year, pick items that are truly special and unique to the season. You will appreciate the indulgence more and stress less over it.

If you have questions about how to eat healthy and enjoy the holiday experience, the skilled staff at Lee Bariatrics is happy to provide guidance and support. Give us a call at 1-888-715-4330.

The above is for general information purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for the medical guidance from and discussion with your physician.