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Well, I think we can say the festive season has officially begun. The decorations are up, shopping is well underway and Christmas parties have already started. 

It is a great time of the year, but there is no reason you have to choose between your diet and fun. There is a way to balance them both. So here are some tips for staying slim over the festive season while still enjoying yourself!

1. STILL EAT WELL
For starters, you must still eat your regular meals. Many people are looking to reduce their calories in the holiday season, so they take out their proper meals in order to eat and drink guilt free at their parties. Do this and you are looking for trouble! Instead, you need to be eating loads of good food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Also, be careful about developing bad habits like eating the left over chocolates and lollies for breakfast, as this is just setting you up for a day of bad eating. If you have to do it (after all, we know you will!), try to start off with a banana, some eggs, avocado and baby spinach and then you can attack the chocolates.

2. MODIFY YOUR FITNESS PROGRAM
It is crucial that you tailor your fitness program to suit the festive period. It might mean you have to get more creative, but the changes will be fun. Instead of just going out for lunch, why not catch up with friends over a game of tennis? You can also try to meet friends in a local café or park so you can walk there instead of taking the car. You can also exercise at home if you don't have time for your regular walk or gym session. Fitness DVDs or a mini trampoline make very convenient workouts, and even 10 minutes done regularly will make a huge difference.

3. GET RID OF THE GUILT!
If you combine good eating with the occasional indulgences of the party food, there is no reason to feel guilty. So don't! Because feeling guilty will only lead you to eating more of the wrong foods. It is a lovely time of the year where you do get to spend quality time with the special people in your life, so it is important to place more emphasis on having fun. And by doing this, you will also remain happy, balanced and in control of your eating.