With the holiday season approaching, we look forward to celebration, togetherness, and indulging in festive treats.

However, did you know that the average person gains one pound during the holiday season, and doesn’t lose it by the next year? While one pound may seem insignificant, these gains can accumulate and lead to gradual weight gain over time. It’s often expected to indulge more during the holiday season, but mindful eating and strategic planning can help you stay on track and avoid gaining extra pounds every year. In addition, mindfully indulging will help you avoid the sluggish and heavy after-dinner coma many people experience after holiday meals.

Here are a few tips you can easily implement this holiday season:

• Eat mindfully –Try to savor your food, eat slowly, and give your body time to digest before grabbing seconds.
• Stick to one serving and move on – You don’t have to say no to the cookie…just enjoy one then shift your focus.
• Fill up on veggies –Enjoy smaller portions of rich dishes, while loading up your plate with vegetables and salad.
• Come prepared – Going to a party or potluck? Bring a healthy dish to enjoy and share with others.
• Don’t starve yourself – Skipping meals before a big dinner can lead to over-eating and rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar. Eat a light breakfast and healthy snacks throughout the day to keep your blood sugar level and avoid binging later on.