Parties, special meals with family and friends, delicious gifts of baked goods shared among neighbors…the holiday season is upon us, and with it, the desire to avoid stepping on the scales for the foreseeable future! But with some simple strategies, you can avoid the “Santa spread”. Here are a few tips to think about during the holidays that can help “tip the scales” in your favor!

• Avoid the holiday “ho ho hums” – you don’t want to miss out on all the fun treats that come with this time of year. Allow yourself to enjoy your seasonal favorites, but satisfy yourself with small tastes.
• Enjoy the holiday “lites” – save calories and fat by using reduced-fat sour cream, mayonnaise and cream cheese for holiday dips and spreads. Serve with colorful vegetable strips and whole wheat crackers.
• Don’t be a “yule fool” – be mindful of the amount of high calorie cheeses, meats and snacks you nibble on. Cheese cubes, salami roll ups and handfuls of nuts rapidly add up and pack a calorie punch!
• Hark! Holiday party go-ers! Offer to bring a fruit or vegetable platter, and munch away. And try having a small snack before you leave home so you’re not starving when you hit the buffet table!
• Bells will be ringing, and alcohol may be flowing. If you drink at all, limit how much you consume.
• Don’t get “snowed” while eating out –ask for dressings, sauces and gravies to be served on the side. Then you can control the amount – and the calories – that go on your salads and entrées.
• Pass on the sleigh ride and go for a walk! Keep up your exercise routine throughout the holidays and beyond. Not only will you burn calories, but you’ll help keep that holiday stress in check.

What about you? What tips work for you that you can share? What are some ways that you plan to ring in a healthy holiday season?