It is that joyous time of year again full of traveling, shopping, family visiting, and of course tons of eating and drinking. For many, this also means less time for physical activity and an excuse to put their year-long dieting efforts on pause to indulge in all the holiday treats.

Humans are biologically programmed to eat more during the autumn months especially when they are enjoying meals with others. The period between Thanksgiving and New Years is the toughest time of year to maintain healthy eating habits. For this reason, it is important to set realistic goals and strategies to avoid extra holiday pounds without losing the holiday spirit. People do not have to feel deprived of certain joys of the holiday season if they design a healthy diet and exercise program for themselves.

The MediSys Health Network has Registered Dieticians that can provide tips on avoiding the holiday bulge and offer ways to incorporate physical activity into your busy holiday schedule. They recommend eating a light meal before attending a party to avoid overeating. Also, substitute the fatty ingredients of those favorite holiday recipes with healthy substitutes. For example, use low fat milk instead of whole milk, or bake with applesauce instead of oils. Limit yourself on foods that may be fried, and try baking, broiling, or roasting them instead. You can still enjoy the same foods but with less calories.

Along with incorporating healthy food choices in your holiday diet, it is important to also include physical activity. Take a walk with a relative after finishing your meal. This can be a relationship-building activity as well as a form of exercise. When shopping at the mall, park farther away so you can get a few more minutes of exercise. You may want to plan on eating before doing your holiday shopping to avoid any temptations from the many fast food restaurants at the malls.