Oh, the late nights, the extra calories, the adult beverages. This time of year can set all of our fitness and health accomplishments from the last several months back a step or two, put our goals on the back burner and make us look like a fool in front of co-workers if we’re not careful.

Our favorite health and fitness magazines have our best interests at heart this month, and they’ve offered up their top tips for surviving the buffets and spiked eggnog without losing your sanity.

1. It’s hard to pass up the bountiful buffet line, so Health magazine suggests that we eat slowly, savoring every bite, and watch our portions. In “Eat, Drink and Stay Healthy,” they even suggest taking a neighborhood walk to look at the shiny lights instead of relaxing on the couch after a big meal.

2. If you’re the host of the party Saturday night, Self magazine wants you to be stress-free. They’ve offered up a handful of snacks and appetizers in “Party Perfect” that are all ready in 30 minutes or less, and several even weigh in at under 200 calories a serving. Enjoy your party without stressing out beforehand.
3. The office holiday party is always a tough one to navigate. Lots of calories and booze to be had. First, don’t drink too much in front of the boss and your colleagues; you don’t want to be the talk of the office Monday morning for that reason. Women’s Health magazine also suggests being picky and planting yourself away from the food table. Don’t eat everything, eat just the best of what’s there. Instead, fill up on great conversation on the other side of the room.
4. This time of year is a busy one, and it’s always tempting to hit the drive-thru on the way home from a long day. Instead, Fitness magazine suggests stopping by the grocery store deli for a fresh salad in “Party-Proof Your Diet.” It’s just as fast, just as easy, and much better on your waistline.
5. And before you slip on your fancy new party shoes, Prevention magazine suggests wearing three different heel heights the week before in “Pain-Proof Your Party Pumps.” Their “rule of 3″ also includes not wearing anything higher than 3 inches, and slipping them off for a few minutes every three hours to give your dancing feet a break.