Party Smart

Champagne toast photo via shutterstock

Boston and Medway-based registered dietitian, Kate Scarlata, gives tips on how to make it through the holidays and still fit into your favorite pair of skinny jeans.

1) Pregame Strategically

“Decide if you are going to have one or two cocktails, and stick with the plan,” says Scarlata, who also recommends drinking one to two large glasses of water to feel full before you head to the soiree.

2) Remove Booze

Forgo empty calories in favor of a nonalcoholic concoction, such as seltzer with a splash of cranberry juice and a lime. “This might fend off the unrelenting host who feels you need to overdrink along with them,” she says.

3) Go Veggie-Heavy

Crowd your plate with crudités, and you’ll be less likely to overindulge in the heavy stuff later, Scarlata advises. Or you could always go for the raw bar. Four large shrimp have only 26 calories.

4) Stay in the Clear

If you must imbibe, “choose clear holiday cocktails versus creamy drinks, which have way more calories,” says Scarlata, who recommends champagne, vodka and soda, or a white wine spritzer.

5) Pop a Piece

Scarlata recommends chewing gum throughout the fete: It’ll deter you from mindless eating—and keep your breath minty-fresh.