Enjoy the holidays while you are on your weight loss journey.

People expect to gain weight over the holidays. People expect to gain five or more pounds between Halloween, New Year’s Day and the New Year. This is a common expectation. Although the average holiday weight gain is less than one pound, it can still cause anxiety and discouragement for those embarking on weight loss.

Here are 10 ways to stay healthy during the holiday season

• Set achievable goals.

Stay focused on maintaining weight rather than losing it. If weight loss is not realistic, it’s worth setting realistic goals to keep you motivated and on track beyond the holidays and makes your holidays more plenty with a healthy mind.

• Plan ahead.

You can bring your food or dish and survey the table before you arrive to plan meals.

• Do not skip meals or store calories.

Skipping meals before a gathering to eat more can backfire. This can lead to snacking and overindulging.

• Get your fill of healthy foods and vegetables first.

There is no need to limit food, but it is important to prioritize healthy food. This will reduce your intake of unhealthy foods.

• Be mindful of your eating habits.

When you feel satisfied, stop eating. You should wait at least 20 minutes before you eat more. Reduce the amount of food you eat if you will eat less nutritious food. This will allow you to enjoy your food and party more.

• Take care when you consume alcohol.

Although alcohol should not be consumed during weight loss, it is important to set a limit. Drinking alcohol can cause poor food choices and excessive eating. When in doubt substitute your alcoholic beverage for a nonalcoholic one.

• Keep hydrated.

Drink at least 64 ounces of water daily. You could add seasonal fruits to your water, such as cinnamon, pear, cranberries, mint, orange, and pomegranate. This will help you drink more and give it a festive flavor.

• Get active.

Make sure to plan for your exercise. Walking, hiking, holiday fun runs, or walking around the Botanical Garden’s luminaries, ZooLights at Phoenix Zoo, or just going for a stroll in your neighborhood are all great ways to get active while enjoying the company of your loved ones. You can even begin new active traditions that aren’t centered around food.

• Don’t forget the importance of sleep.

Sleep deprivation can affect your metabolism and cause less impulse control.

• Get back on the right track immediately.

Gaining weight and giving in to impulses and cravings does not mean your weight loss journey has ended. Tomorrow is a new day for you to restart your normal eating habits and get back on track.

You can be successful with your weight loss journey during the holiday season by planning if you follow these healthy steps.

Shifting your focus from food to new traditions, family, and loved ones can help bring joy back to the holidays.