It’s that wonderful time of year again.  Pumpkin pie, stuffing, Aunt Betty’s famous eggnog. Between the endless holiday parties and high-calorie treats, this time of year might not feel so “wonderful” when trying to squeeze into your favorite pair of jeans. But how is one to resist temptation when Aunt Betty’s eggnog is just calling your name? The team of chefs over at HelloFresh is here to share some of their best tips to keep you feeling especially wonderful this holiday season.

photo credit: wellmamaoregon.com

Portion Control

We know, you’ve heard this one before, but don’t let your head get ahead of your stomach. Sure, that extra slice of pie would taste delicious, but are you really going to feel good (mentally and physically) after guzzling it down? Portion control is key to allow you to enjoy your favorite holiday treats without overdoing it. Take your piece of pie, then step away. Far, far away. Out of sight, out of mind, right?

Everything in Moderation

Speaking of pie (and yes, we encourage you to enjoy that pie, cookie, or whatever it may be), the holidays are typically a time of indulgence; but just because everyone else is going buckwild at the buffet, doesn’t mean you have to, too. Take a moment to look at your schedule for the week. When will you be around food that you simply cannot miss out on and when will you be around food that’s less than stellar? Plan your treats around these occasions. Your coworker’s incredible homemade chocolate chip cookies? Treat yo’self! Same old, bland cookies from the office caterer again? No thanks. Ask yourself, am I eating this because Janet’s cookies are the absolute best ever, or because it’s simply there?

At the same time, we don’t recommend you deprive yourself either. The more you resist, the more you’ll go crazy on the treats after one-too-many glasses of mulled cider. And besides, you have too much to do this time year to worry can I or can’t I? You’re smart, you know what is and isn’t good for your body. If you’re really stuck, just go with your gut – will I be happy I ate this tomorrow, or will I regret it? – then move on!

Cook at Home

This one is a toughie. You’re busy buying gifts, planning parties, making travel plans that by the time you get home, cooking a fresh meal is about the last thing on your list of priorities. Hello, Chinese takeout! Again…

Avoid this situation by taking some time each week to plan out your meals for the week. Use a free Sunday afternoon to cook a few meals ahead, so all you have to do is pop dinner in the microwave when you get home. Or give us, HelloFresh, a try – you pick 3 recipes each week, we deliver the exact ingredients to your door, and you’ve got a home-cooked dinner in 30 minutes or less.

It may seem obvious, but it bears repeating: cooking at home is healthier than ordering takeout or heating up a frozen meal every night. You can control the amount of fat and salt in your food (ever wonder why restaurant food tastes so good? Loads of butter and salt!), and you can limit the amount of food on your plate (see portion control above). Even more, it’s much more cost-effective, which is crucial with that never-ending holiday shopping list.