The holiday season lasts almost a quarter of the year, and there are plenty of sweet and savory indulgences that go along with it.

Consider some of these ideas for a healthier plate to avoid the discomfort you may feel after eating holiday meals, as well as extra pounds.

1. Simplify

Reduce the number of dishes you make or buy. Do you need green bean and asparagus casserole, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, pasta salad, turkey and ham? It’s much easier to shop for, prepare, and serve seven dishes than a dozen. Plus, you’ll help your guests limit their plates, too.

2. Eliminate the extras

Does your sweet potato casserole need a full cup of brown sugar, plus marshmallows and crushed corn flakes? Try baked sweet potatoes with butter, brown sugar and nuts on the side.

3. Be careful with carbs

Holiday meals can become carbohydrate nightmares. Rolls, stuffing, cranberry sauce, applesauce, potatoes, cheese and crackers appetizers — not to mention desserts — and you’re well over what your body needs. Instead, take an extra slice of turkey and another pile of vegetables.

4. Make wise food choices

Be selective. Set snacking parameters. Only eat treats in the break room on Fridays. Have alcohol or dessert, but not both. Save room for dishes you enjoy and skip the ones that aren’t your favorites.

5. Leave space on your plate

Leave white space on your plate as you add your favorite dishes. Don’t let foods touch, and don’t pile on layers of food. Leaving space on your plate will help leave space in your stomach, too.