When people think of the holiday season, many consider Thanksgiving the kick-off. But, in reality, the indulgences may start as early as Halloween.

That’s a good two months of losing your way. It’s no wonder it can be difficult to get back on track once January 1 arrives. I know I’m having a hard time! In truth, my “holiday” season lasts from early September through the Superbowl. All those football Sundays, and Mondays, and Thursdays… too much fried food and beer.

I digress!

Instead of trying to lose 10 pounds in one day, Amy Shapiro, MS, RD, CDN, advises focusing on a few things you know you can succeed at so you realize changes quickly and then build upon them.

Three achievable goals she discussed with Dr. Taz are:

1. Make sure you’re meeting your water goals. This decreases bloating and increases energy, as well as helps reset your metabolism.
2. Fill half your plate with vegetables at every meal.
3. Cut out “white” foods, such as breads, crackers, French fries, etc.
4. In terms of doing a detox, Amy believes the body knows how to detox itself but that water consumption is a key part of allowing it to do its job.

Intermittent fasting (IF) is also an effective option, but it’s important to ensure you’re getting all your nutrients in during your eating window. So, you might have to supplement with certain vitamins and minerals if not possible via food.

Listen, these are simple concepts–but the trick is they are, indeed, simple. Baby steps to get your on your way to finding that pre-holiday body.