The holidays are a time for joy and a time for stress. On top of thinking about the meals you have to prepare, you're most likely also concerned about gaining weight from all those dinners and parties. However, you can stay on track with your goals to keep fit and not have to worry about holiday weight gain if you follow these tips:

1) Never skip any meals.

It's still the best rule to follow, no matter the event or season. Even if you're bound to see a feast at the Thanksgiving table, it's still better to stick with your meal routines so that your body is full and nourished all day. This way, you won't have the urge to stuff yourself with food at the get together.

2) Downsize with a smaller plate.

Some holiday parties usually prepare giant dinner plates, which only prompts you to fill it with food. Instead of grabbing those, take the smaller dishes such as the appetizer plate or the ones reserved for kids. You could still eat a satisfying meal at the Christmas party without overeating, according to Red Book Magazine.

3) Always pace yourself.

Holiday dinners must be enjoyed leisurely among friends and family, so slow down when chewing your food and put your fork, knife or spoon down as you're chewing. You should be in control of the way you eat, according to Web MD.

4) Get moving!

Burn calories by maintaining your fitness routine even during the cold season. In fact, you should never skip this just because it's the holidays.

5) Say "No" to leftovers.

Resist the urge of bringing leftover foods home from the party, especially those cakes and pies. If you're the one hosting the dinner and you've got plenty of leftovers, consider giving this away to friends or people in need in various charities, homeless shelters or food runner or food pantry programs so that it won't go to waste, according to Womens Forum. 

6) Don't "go on a diet" right after the holidays.

If you've been binge-eating in the last few weeks, don't immediately start your diet afterwards, as this will only make you hungrier, according to doctor and author Louis J. Aronne, via Glamour. Pace yourself by incorporating more protein like eggs and yogurt in your daily breakfast. This way, you can manage your appetite for the whole day and lessen hunger pangs.