Guide to Preventing Holiday Weight Gain

Holiday weight gain seems guaranteed, but the season doesn't have to mean your scale will become your worst enemy. It's possible to keep the pounds at bay if you enjoy holiday foods in moderation, prepare for seasonal cravings, become and stay more active, and make small, healthy changes in the foods you serve.

Watching your weight at holiday parties doesn't mean you have to sip water while everyone else noshes. With a few tactics -- such as moving away from the buffet as soon as you've served yourself, or having a healthy snack beforehand -- you can celebrate without your weight loss efforts spoiling the fun.

Healthy eating doesn't just happen. You have to plan the changes you are going to make and then stick to them. Prepare by identifying which foods you should eat in plentiful portions, avoid entirely, or enjoy in moderation. Consider filling up your plate two-thirds with healthy foods and one-third with treats.

In all the hustle-and-bustle of holiday preparation, it's important to include healthy snacks in your day. Snacking regularly will help keep your energy level up. If you become too fatigued, you are more likely to reach for something high-calorie in order to "perk" yourself up. Smart snacking will also help keep your blood sugar on an even keel and take the edge off your appetite, which can prevent overeating.

It may be just one day, but Thanksgiving dinner officially kicks off the holiday eating season and can set the precedent for habits you will follow the rest of the season. Get off to a good start by making smarter food choices, avoiding overeating, controlling portions, and watching your alcohol intake.