Do you gain an extra 5 pounds during the holiday season? You’re not alone. From Halloween through New Years Day, there are parties galore and an over-abundance of indulgent foods available. Combine those excess calories with a decrease in physical activity due to the cold weather, and it’s easy to see how that extra weight creeps up on you.

Here are a few tips to help reduce the chance of gaining those extra pounds.

• Be realistic – aim to maintain weight. Enjoy the holidays without trying to lose weight.
• Maintain a regular schedule. Continuing your physical activity will combat holiday stress and weight gain.
• Don’t skip meals the day of a party. Starving before can lead to binging later.
• Choose foods you don’t eat daily. Indulge in a few treats, but keep portion control in mind. A small taste may satisfy a craving.
• Move the conversation away from the food area. You’ll be less tempted to grab random bites of food throughout the party.
• Alcohol is high in calories and lowers inhibitions, which may lead to over-indulging. Try replacing or alternating alcoholic beverages with sparkling water.

Enjoy the holiday season!