For more holiday-related health tips, check out6 Healthy Seasonal Foods To Grab at Trader Joe’s.

Keep your eye on fruit and vegetable dishes that can fill up about half of your plate.

Toasting the season with cocktail after cocktail could contribute to putting on abdominal weight.

holiday cookies

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Studieshave linked high alcohol consumption to higher waist circumference.

The reason behind the connection?

And foods loaded with refined carbs are notorious for potentiallyincreasing belly fat.

fruits and vegetables

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Or, for better portion control, split your dessert with a family member.

They’re all festive foods that pack plenty of protein.

For preventing the buildup of belly fat, that may be a very good thing.

Woman craving junk food while on a diet

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For reference, high-quality protein is the kind that supplies all essential amino acids.

As you plan your holiday meals, try focusing on these protein options.

In fact, a2011 studylinked mindfulness to a reduction in abdominal fat in overweight and obese women.

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Conversely, those who didn’t eat with mindful intention ended up actually gaining weight.

Some of these may work for your daily life, and some may not.

It’s about taking this helpful advice and figuring out what fits for your personal goals.