There’s no avoiding it. There’s food everywhere you go this time of year. From holiday parties, treats at work, eating on-the-go, and not to mention all the high-calorie drinks.We tend to get so wrapped up in the festivities that we forget all about our healthy living goals. But don’t worry; there are many ways to enjoy this season without being terrified of going near a scale once it’s all over.Try these 10 tips to minimize your calories while still enjoying the festivities:1. Start with a high protein breakfast - Include peanut butter, Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, which will curb your hunger and make it easier to pass on those high-calorie snacks. Skipping any meal is never a good idea, especially breakfast!2. Eat a snack before your function- If you arrive hungry, you’re more likely to overindulge.3. Fill up on lower calorie appetizers first- Choose fruits, vegetables and shrimp cocktail instead of nuts, olives and full-fat cheeses.4. Eat your calories instead of drinking them- choose no-calorie or low-calorie beverages (water, diet sodas, lite beer, or wine spritzer) and limit quantities of alcoholic beer, wine and mixed drinks; which can range between 150-300 calories per drink.5. Talk more, eat less- Don’t stand beside the buffet table with the urge to nibble constantly; focus on socializing with people instead.6. Survey the table first- Choose vegetables & salads, lean meats, and small portions of those side dishes you really love. Fill your plate with a rainbow of colors and watch out for those dense hidden calories (ie. cranberry sauce, gravy, butter, whipped cream, etc.). Eat until you are satisfied, not stuffed.7. Slow it down- Give yourself 15-20 minutes to finish a plate by eating slowly and savouring the tastes and table conversations.8. Choose dessert wisely -considering that they can range from 100-1000 calories, decide which one will satisfy your sweet tooth and limit portion size.9. Get active -a brisk walk after the event will not only help burn off those calories and keep you focused on your health goals during the season, it will relieve stress too!10. Practice saying “No thank you, but everything was delicious.”Sneak in exercise whenever you can by looking for the furthest parking spot while holiday shopping and always choosing the stairs over the escalator. Family gatherings are a great time to get to know the kids better by getting on the floor and playing with them or running after them. Energy is contagious!Fine foods are one of the many pleasures of the holiday season, so allow yourself to splurge on the foods that make it meaningful in small amounts.Always remember: even if you’re not always successful at eating right, compliment yourself for trying and then get right back on track.For more information, visit www.registereddietitian.ca