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It happens every year right about this time; your pants seem to get a bit snug. You tell yourself they are probably shrinking, but deep inside you know what the problem is: you have overindulged and you didn't even know it! Not to worry! If you plan ahead, you can get through the holiday season feeling satisfied and good about yourself.

GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION

One thing you can do to keep from gaining weight during the holidays is to tell yourself that it is okay to give in to indulgence every now and then. If you are consciously giving yourself permission to fully enjoy what sinful foods are available, then you are more likely not to overdo it. This way you are not eating blindly but rather you are making a choice to eat. Giving yourself permission helps you not feel guilty.

SET LIMITS FOR YOURSELF

If you find yourself in a situation where you are suddenly faced with food temptations, (as in your co-worker brought five different types of homemade cookies), then make a decision to either taste two out of the five types or have just a piece of each one. Pause before grabbing and think about what your choice is and then stick to your limits. This will allow you to enjoy the treats but not overindulge.

GET FULL FIRST

You know you'll be faced with temptation when you go to Aunt Margaret's house, so prepare yourself before you go. Go ahead and eat a small bowl of high fiber cereal and a glass of water. This will not only satisfy your hunger but it will also help keep you feeling full. If you are running late and don't have time for cereal, then you should have a medium sized apple and water to keep your hunger at bay. Never go to a party or a social event when you are crazy-starving! You are asking for trouble if you do.

GO EASY

Yes, we know the holiday dinner is scrumptious, but don't fall into the trap of piling on the food. Have some of everything; just don't get tons of it. If possible, try to stay away from the butter, gravy, dressings and cheeses and focus instead on the salads and vegetables. Remember the old trick of dipping your fork into the salad dressing and then spearing your lettuce and tomato instead of pouring on the dressing all over your salad. You'd be amazed at the number of calories you save!

IT'S NOT ALL OR NONE

Too many people make the unfortunate mistake of throwing up their hands in disgust of themselves for overindulging and saying "forget it" to their diet. If you absolutely want to pig out at a social event, then do it! The key is to remember that you are more then likely to feel super hungry the following day simply because the overindulgence has that effect on your body. This is the time to turn to celery sticks, baby carrots and fresh fruit to curb your appetite. Just because you eat too much one day doesn't mean you should give up your diet altogether! Forgive yourself and take it easy the next six to seven days by focusing on eating vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and plenty of water. However, remember that it is never a good idea to starve yourself for any reason. Treat yourself every now and then but then take care of your body, not punish it. Your waistline will thank you for it.

Learn more about this author, MiLa Driver.
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