During the holiday season, it's a good idea to spare yourself some calories for a few slices, otherwise you'll feel deprived. I tried to go "cold turkey" one year -- disaster: The words pie plate, chocolate cream and fork come to mind. (Notice, no knife was involved.)

Instead of saying no and leading yourself into a similar pie-related binge, say yes to a smarter slice. Consider this smart swap:

Swap: Cherry pie, 1 slice
For: Pumpkin pie, 1 slice
Save: 170 calories

If you have a hankering for fruit pie, but really want to spare yourself some calories, eat only the filling, leaving the crust behind (the fat is in the crust). Or, meet yourself halfway and enjoy the bottom portion of the crust and leave off the top -- just doing that will save you 75 calories a slice!

More:
Save Calories with Holiday Food Swaps
Quick Guide: Calories in Desserts

"How did this thing empty itself?!"

Just when you think you've got this holiday weight-control thing figured out, a few fruit cakes and a chocolate-filled stocking or two come your way and you lose all control.

What do you now? The answer is ... do not give up! But at times, that feels easier said than done. We could all use a little help in staying on track; fortunately, there's plenty around the About.com network.

The holiday season can be your healthiest season with these tips from Guides around About.com. Happy healthy holidays!

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It's day seven of my trial of the Weight Watchers Momentum plan which can mean only one thing ... it's weigh-in day!

I have lost exactly four pounds!

Now, before anyone gets too excited, here are some important things to remember:

The first week of almost any effective weight-loss plan leads to a "supersized" result, and that's due to the fact that you lose a lot of water weight in the first few days of the diet. (Meaning, it's not really all fat that's been zapped.)

Also, it's not a good idea to lose more than two pounds a week regularly because the weight simply will not stay off, plus by intentionally doing so, you can actually put your health at risk. In fact, after I entered my weight online at WeightWatchers.com, it showed me a message suggesting that I slow down my weight-loss rate.

That said, I have to admit it's a pretty big thrill to see a "zero" on the end of my weight! It was what I was hoping to see this month, so I feel good. Overall, I am happy with the plan and am adjusting to it more each day.

Typically, the second week of a weight-loss plan brings less earth-shattering results because your body begins to adjust to the diet. I was previously losing about a half-pound to a pound per week by cutting extra calories and walking more, so the next month or so will be a good indicator of whether or not Weight Watchers Momentum is the "helping hand" that I need as it becomes more of a way of life for me. Stay tuned!

Readers Respond: What do You Think of Weight Watchers?

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There are a few items you are virtually guaranteed to be preparing or eating before the holidays are over. Here's more advice on slimming-down holiday staples:

What's a slice of turkey without it? Gravy isn't as diet-busting as you might think as long as you use a fat-separator to remove the grease. One-eighth of a cup only has 15 calories.

Green bean casserole isn't a no-go if you make healthier subs; we use fat-free cream of mushroom soup. Or sauté the beans instead for a change.

Stuffing is another must; use extra herbs instead of sausage or butter. Just go easy on the portions. It has 74 calories per fourth-cup serving.

More: Healthy Holiday Eating Hints

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