DRINK PLENTY OF WATER
Drink at least a litre of water before going to a party, and two glasses of water with every alcoholic drink – this will keep you hydrated, prevent over-drinking and the dreaded hangover. Fizzy water may cause bloating, so opt for still water instead.  

BE ALCOHOL SMART
Alternate alcoholic with non-alcoholic drinks. Instead of beer, cider or Bailey’s try dry wine, Bloody Mary or spirits with fruit juice. Avoid mixing drinks. Never drink on an empty stomach, as this creates the most damage. At least eat some protein-rich nuts to slow down the absorption of alcohol. Better still; drink alcohol with your meal.

SUPPORT YOUR LIVER
If you are likely to over-indulge, take milk thistle herbal capsules daily, starting from now, to support the liver and reduce alcohol damage likely to be incurred from the parties that lie ahead. Or at the very least, take it before you go out and when you return. I swear by Biocare Milk Thistle (www.biocare.co.uk).

KEEP WEIGHT IN CHECK
Avoid going out to a party when you’re hungry, you will be more inclined to overeat. Have a sandwich, cereal or a handful of nuts and seeds beforehand.  
Alternatively have a starter at the venue. Chew your food slowly and thoroughly; this reduces the likelihood of overeating and allows the brain to register when you are full. You can sample the different foods and have a treat as long as you are conscious of the size of your portions. Go for small portions, particularly when it comes to chocolates, cakes, pastries, crisps and fatty foods – especially the deep fried variety served up on the Asian platter. Add extra vegetables to your plate during your main course and opt for low-fat yoghurt instead of brandy butter or clotted cream with your Christmas pudding.

INCREASE ENERGY LEVELS
If you find yourself unable to drag yourself to the gym, work out at home – you’ll need to practice your moves for the dancefloor, right? Take the stairs, and take a brisk walk whenever you can (why not walk to the next bus stop?). Whatever you do, find 20 minutes a day to keep active.  

STAY STRESS-FREE
The frenzy of office parties, Christmas shopping, food preparation, financial pressures and keeping everybody happy can add to your stress levels. When it gets too much, remove yourself from the hectic situation and stop thinking about it – deep breathing is an excellent way to diffuse stress instantly. Close your eyes and take seven deep breaths. Think of the last time you laughed hard. This will flood your body with the happy chemicals which will de-stress you in an instant.

BOOST YOUR IMMUNITY
Colds spread like wildfire at this time of year, so it’s important to give your immune system a helping hand. Echinacea is a great ‘all-rounder’ with anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. Bioforce has an excellent Echinacea tincture called Echinaforce (www.bioforce.co.uk). Take 15 drops 2-3 times daily and you’ll feel right as rain.

HAVE A SUNDAY DETOX
Kick off today with a cup of hot water and lemon to help cleanse your system. Follow with a freshly pressed carrot, apple, beetroot, berries and ginger juice for further detoxification and to supercharge the body with antioxidants. Skip all wheat-based products (at least for a week). Wheat causes bloating and water retention. Breakfast should consist of porridge and rice milk with little honey and cinnamon. Make lunch and dinner meat-free, and instead include pulses, lentils, tofu, brown rice, beans and vegetables. Replace your normal tea or coffee with herbal teas; peppermint, ginger, fennel or green tea. Any day where heavy food and alcohol isn’t a must, treat your body to a good cleanse.

PAMPER YOURSELF
The holiday season is a hectic time for most women, so looking and feeling your best takes more than a shopping spree in Green Street or raiding the beauty counter at Boots! Go for the ultimate pampering and book yourself into a top spa. A facial and massage are a must to feel truly rejuvenated. Try Elemis Spa Cooling Hot Stone Body-Facial for pure body indulgence with exceptional anti-aging facial results. www.elemis.com  

GET YOUR BEAUTY SLEEP
Your body repairs itself while you rest. Whenever possible, aim to go to bed by 11pm. You will awake feeling totally refreshed and looking radiant… until the next party comes along, that is. Enjoy every moment and look after yourself!