The holiday season is known for its festive gatherings, full of delicious treats and decadent meals. While it’s a time to enjoy indulgent foods and good company, it can also present a challenge for those trying to stick to a healthy eating routine. Thankfully, with a little preparation and mindfulness, you can navigate holiday parties without straying too far from your health goals. Here are five practical tips to help you enjoy the festivities while maintaining a balanced diet.

1. Prioritize Protein and Fiber

One of the easiest ways to stay satisfied at a holiday party without overindulging is by filling up on protein and fiber. These nutrients are both filling and nutritious, helping you feel full longer and reducing cravings for unhealthy snacks. When you arrive at the event, make a beeline for the veggie platter, lean proteins like turkey slices or shrimp, or any bean-based appetizers. These options will not only keep you full but also prevent you from overdoing it on carb-heavy or sugary treats. Protein helps maintain muscle mass, while fiber aids digestion, making both essential for balancing your holiday eating habits.

2. Choose Your Indulgences Wisely

Holiday parties often come with an abundance of food options, and it can be tempting to sample everything. Rather than mindlessly grazing, try to focus on the foods that are most appealing to you or that you only enjoy during the holiday season. By choosing your indulgences strategically, you can enjoy a treat without going overboard. For example, if you’re a fan of gingerbread cookies but not the punch, focus on the cookies and skip the sugary drinks. This method allows you to savor the holiday flavors without consuming unnecessary calories.

3. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is essential at any holiday event, especially when alcohol and salty snacks are involved. Dehydration can cause unnecessary cravings and lead to overeating, so it’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the event. Aim to alternate between alcoholic beverages and water to help you pace yourself. If you’re not a fan of plain water, try infusing it with fresh fruit or herbs like mint and cucumber to make it more enjoyable. Proper hydration will also help you feel better overall and keep your energy up for dancing, conversations, or any other festive activities.

4. Be Mindful of Portions

Holiday parties are notorious for offering oversized portions, whether it’s a large plate of appetizers or a towering slice of pie. To avoid overeating, consider using smaller plates or taking a smaller serving of your favorite dishes. Eating slowly and savoring each bite allows you to enjoy your food without rushing, which also gives your body time to signal when it's full. If you’re unsure about portion sizes, stick to one plate of food and focus on balancing the different food groups—vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains. This strategy helps you feel satisfied without overloading on excess calories.

5. Don’t Skip Meals

It might seem like a good idea to skip meals earlier in the day to “save room” for the holiday feast, but this strategy can often backfire. Skipping meals can make you extra hungry, leading to overeating later. Instead, make sure to eat balanced meals throughout the day. A breakfast rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber—like a smoothie with spinach, chia seeds, and almond butter—will keep your energy levels steady and help you stay full until the party. If you’re attending a late-night gathering, have a light snack, such as a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts, before heading out to avoid showing up ravenous and overindulging.

Bonus Tip: Stay Active

While not directly related to eating, staying active during the holidays is a key component of maintaining a healthy balance. Whether it’s going for a walk before or after a meal, dancing at a party, or organizing a friendly holiday game, staying physically active can help offset some of the extra indulgences. Plus, regular exercise can improve your mood and help you manage stress during what can be a hectic time of year.

The holidays are about enjoying time with friends and family, and food is a central part of these celebrations. By incorporating these five healthy eating tips into your holiday parties, you can indulge in festive treats without compromising your health. Remember, it’s not about perfection, but about finding a balance that allows you to enjoy the season while taking care of yourself.