It's the most wonderful time of the year! Everywhere you go there are cookies, brownies, cakes, and desserts galore! Although it may be tempting to completely indulge in these delicious treats, your body will thank you if you use moderation. I'm not saying you should sit back and not partake in any of the fun holiday festivities and fun treats but really ask yourself, "Do I need this?"

Tip #1: Hydrate Before You Caffeinate

I love drinking coffee in the winter time! There are so many festive and fun creamers to choose from. Who doesn't love making their coffee taste like a candy cane dipped in a nice mocha? It gets you right in the mood for the holidays! However, ALWAYS remember to HYDRATE before you CAFFEINATE! Coffee can really dehydrate your body, so please remember to always pair your peppermint mocha with a tall glass of ice water.

Tip #2: Don't Go To The Parties Hungry

It isn't a Christmas party if there isn't a plethora of side dishes and snacks to choose from. To keep yourself from indulging in the cheese tray, try to have a little snack before going to the party. This way, you won't be looking for the snacks as soon as you walk into the party!

Tip #3: Be Realistic

Don't set extremely unreachable goals. Doing this will only set you up for failure and discouragement. Start low and climb higher as you see progress with your habits.

Tip #4: Watch Your Beverage Intake

I know it's hard to control yourself around the fun holiday drinks, but be cautious of the sugar in them! You should enjoy everything, just don't over indulge. Never cut anything completely out of your diet because you will drive yourself crazy, and if you slip up and do have it, you will feel terrible about yourself.

Tip #5: Don't Forget About Exercising

You may not want to do it, but you will feel so much better about yourself after you've done it! Think of all the Christmas cookies you can have after that run!

Tip #6: Think First

Fill your plate with items from the fruit and veggie trays before diving headfirst into that buffalo chicken dip!

Tip #7: It Isn't All About The Food

Don't walk into a party and head straight for the food. Socialize and catch up with everyone first before your start stuffing your face. If you're hungry, of course grab something to snack on, but don't spend your entire evening hovering the food table.

Tip #8: Don't Be Too Hard On Yourself

You can still enjoy Christmas and all the amazing food that comes along with it without having to hate yourself for eating it. Just use your good judgment that I know you have and take each bite of your cookie with a little consideration of what it is that you're actually eating, while still enjoying it. After all, it is Christmas and you should be able to eat all of the Christmas cookies you want! 'Tis the season!

Christmas is an amazing time to sit back with friends and family and just simply enjoy each other's company. A cookie or two here and there is not going to hurt anything. Always remember your healthy tips in the back of your head, but don't let that stop you from having fun! So go enjoy that hot cup of coffee (accompanied by a large ice water) and have yourself a merry little Christmas!