The marathon we've been waiting for all year is approaching! From December 12 to January 6, tamales and ponche will become the essential element of all gatherings. While for many the biggest challenge is keeping up with the party pace, for others, what concerns us is how to enjoy the Guadalupe-Reyes without gaining weight. If you also want to have fun this Lupe-Reyes without the scale taking a toll on you in January, follow these simple recommendations:

• Don't punish yourself.

Never go to a gathering thinking that you can't eat anything at all. This will only increase temptation, and you'll end up eating even more. The best thing you can do is eat a little bit of everything and learn to moderate yourself.

• Have a snack before going out.

If you already know that at the posadas they only serve tamales, tacos, and atole, have some tea and fruit before going to the party. The point is not to arrive on an empty stomach so you don’t end up eating five tamales.

• Choose the lower-calorie option.

Even at posadas, you can find lighter alternatives. Instead of having two cups of atole, opt for fruit ponche. Dilute it with a little water so it's not too sweet. Stay away from corn fritters, and instead snack on tortilla chips, beans, and guacamole.

• Bring your own food.

At more casual posadas, guests can bring their preferred dish. If this is the case, prepare a recipe that is much lighter and serves as an alternative to tamales or tacos.

• Watch your alcohol intake.

Cocktails can hide many calories. If you’re going to drink, try to mix your beverages with sparkling water, but above all, avoid sweet cocktails. These alcoholic drinks tend to have the most calories.

• Don't go to bed right after dinner.

The big problem with most of these parties is that they are organized at night, so we end up digesting while lying down. Ideally, you should stop eating several hours before you go to sleep to avoid indigestion issues. Prepare these delicious recipes and enjoy the Guadalupe-Reyes Marathon without guilt: Nopal tacos stuffed with ricotta Poblano pepper stuffed with quinoa Portobello tacos with lettuce puree Mushroom broth with epazote