The holidays are full of family, friends, fun and food. Many dieters completely abandon weight loss plans in favor of having fun, which leads to huge disappointment once the holidays are gone. The thought that you can't enjoy the food over the holidays if you're on a diet isn't true at all; you just have to follow a few rules to make sure that you don't pack on the pounds from indulging. Even on a diet, you can enjoy the special foods and still maintain weight loss during the holidays.
Step 1
Fit in some exercise. Even if you can't make it to the gym, you can still get a decent workout and burn some calories. Go for a long walk or pop in a fitness DVD. Even playing in the snow or wrestling with the kids counts as exercise.
Step 2
Decide ahead of time which foods you can't do without, and which ones you can give up for the sake of your diet. Apply the same restrictions you usually follow on your diet, and pick and choose which dishes to enjoy at your meal. Keep in mind that you can always pack a slice of pie or a serving of dressing to eat another day; it doesn't all have to fit in one day.
Step 3
Think small. You can enjoy your grandmother's chocolate pie; just be careful how much you put on your plate. Keep a close eye on your serving sizes, especially desserts.
Step 4
Take breaks. Give yourself time to gauge when you're full. Take a few bites, and put down your fork. Enjoy your company for a little while, then resume eating.
Step 5
Avoid alcohol. Not only does alcohol contain calories, it also lowers your inhibitions. This relaxing effect breaks down your defenses, causing you to ignore your diet and eat more.
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