BE prepared …when you fail to plan you plan to fail. Don’t kid yourself on that you are not going to have some of that delicious Christmas pudding. Acknowledge that you are going to enjoy yourself over this period but also owe it to yourself to stay in control.  Plan ahead and allow your self a small portion of your favourite treat and really savour it. Then fill up on all the healthy options like skinless lean turkey breast, scrumptious salads, fruit, low fat custard and roasted vegetables. It is also a good idea to eat a healthy, high-protein snack before going to that holiday party or dinner. The protein will help you feel full for longer and stabilize blood sugars. This means you’ll be less likely to binge and over-indulge.

BE empowered… Don’t allow people to coerce you into eating something you don’t really want or feel like eating. We all have that Aunty or mother in-law who insists we are way too skinny and “must eat up” The bottom line is if you feel like something a bit naughty then by all means have it but also have the power and strength to politely decline and chose a healthier option. While their intentions are good don’t allow their forcefulness guilt you into eating something you don’t really want. Even if you have to reply yes as not to insult them, have a small portion, take a nibble then leave the remainder…better it going to waste then to your waist!

BE active…Just watching your diet alone over the Christmas period wont stop those moments on the lips settling on the hips! For true fat loss, it is critical that you incorporate regular exercise into the holiday routine. Only regular and consistent exercise, combined with a relatively healthy diet, will help you get through the holiday season without packing on the pounds. Go for a walk early in the morning before any of the Christmas madness sets in and you get caught up doing chores. Why not pop on your joggers and power walk around your favourite mall, better still walk to the shops and get a loved one to pick you up when you are done. We all know how hectic it can be to get a park at the shops over the Christmas period and you need to shop for Christmas presents anyway so why not use it as a chance to burn those candy canes away! Remember you have to use it to lose it!