From Halloween to the New Year, there are many celebrations with delicious and comforting recipes that may be out of your normal eating routine. Holiday parties, family dinners and sweet treats can make this time of year difficult to stick to healthy habits. Try these tips to enjoy this season with balance, allowing plenty of room for both health and your favorite holiday recipes.

Eat a nutrient-dense breakfast

Starting your day with a nutritious breakfast will help keep you full and feeling energized, which may help you from overeating later in the day. Try pairing a protein like eggs or yogurt, with a complex carbohydrate such as toast or oatmeal. Add in a healthy fat such as walnuts, avocado or chia seeds with a side of fruit to start your holiday morning right.

Get in some movement

Exercising can help avoid feeling sluggish on a meal-heavy day. Start with movement in the morning like a brisk walk, run, weight bearing exercise or yoga. Try a family walk after the holiday meal to aid in digestion.

Drink plenty of water

Staying hydrated is always important, but especially when eating foods out of or normal diet. Proper hydration will assist with digestion and help your body recognize hunger and fullness cues. Begin drinking water in the morning and continue to drink throughout the day. Have a glass of water along with other beverages during mealtimes.

Contribute a fruit or vegetable dish to the meal

There are plenty of ways to make a healthy dish taste like a holiday treat. Bring a side containing a fruit or vegetable to give yourself and others a nutritious option. Try roasting Brussels sprouts or butternut squash in the oven, drizzled with 100 percent pure maple syrup and sprinkled walnuts. Winter fruit salads with grapefruit, kiwi, mandarin oranges, pears and pomegranates will add color to the plate and add a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Keep portions in mind

Remembering portion size can allow you to enjoy all of your favorite recipes without overeating. Try filling your plate with fruits and vegetables first. When choosing meat options, visualize the size of the palm of your hand. Carbohydrate foods generally have a serving size of around half of a cup. Enjoy dessert in small quantities.

As you prepare for the upcoming season, remember that pairing holiday festivities with your health goals does not have to be complicated. Picking mostly nutrient dense foods, staying hydrated, incorporating active movement, and enjoying your favorite holiday dishes in moderation are great ways to maintain your health from now through the new year.