The season of 5-7 pounds is upon us, how will you survive it?

Hello my People,
Oh yes, Halloween is over. The candy hangover is still lingering in the air. Now we have the Turkey coma, the Christmas candies, cookies and cakes. Then we have New Years Eve. A holiday fixated on booze and heavy food. Oh my, how is one to make it through without gaining all that holiday weight? I've done a little research for you my people.

Ten ways to survive the holiday weight gain:

1. Never arrive Hungry. Have a snack before you head to your party. Choose something healthy and filling like and apple or an orange. Drink plenty of water, to stay hydrated and avoid the bloat of eating all the salty and sugary goodness.

2. Divert your attention. Don't let the food be the sole focus of the party. Focus on the people, mingle a little. Play games if there are games. Dance if there is dancing. Whatever is happening at the party, get involved, and avoid the food. You really will have more fun.

3. Keep your tempo slow and steady. By taking smaller bites and really savoring the flavors of the food, you will enjoy it so much more. Sample small amounts of the foods you like, and then you won't feel deprived.

4. Keep track of your portion sizes. That was as stated in number three, you can eat more variety but smaller portions. A little bit of this and a little bit of that. But not end up feeling miserable and guilty.

5. Be smart about family style/buffet service. If there are fruits and veggies available make those fill half of your plate. The other half is for your most favorite foods on display. That will help you keep it light and healthy.

6. Limit your alcohol consumption. I know that sounds like no fun at all. When the holidays are over and you haven't gained any weight you'll thank me. I didn't say you couldn't enjoy a drink. Just try to enjoy your drink. Don't drink it too fast and you're bound to enjoy it more, plus end up wanting less.

7. When choosing sweets, eat the one that you'll enjoy the most. Just like those chocolates that have a variety in a box. You know the ones, the ones you eat only the chocolate covered caramel and leave the fruity filling ones. If you want that cheese cake have it, but don't eat the chocolate cake too.

8. Bring your own. If you want to be sure there is diet soda, bring your own. The same goes for other eats and treats. If you want to make certain that you have your trusty safe food or beverage, bring your own.

9. Don't be a taster. If the party is at your house, make sure you have a taste tester other than yourself. Ask a significant other. They love to help. It's you and them against the holiday season! Better yet,throw caution to the wind and don't taste it at all. Say it's your sense of adventure, and trust in your cooking skills.

10. Walk it off. Try to take an after dinner walk on Turkey day. Get out and enjoy the Fall season. If you go shopping spend more time walking the mall than usual. Climb the stairs instead of taking the elevator, take that tired old dog for a walk so they don't gain the holiday weight either. Basically, get physical. Start your New years resolution on Turkey day. That way you have your fitness routine down when all the weight loss commercials hit January 1st. You will be able to smiley widely and say, I didn't gain a pound during the holidays. In fact I lots weight!

Happy Holidays People,

Leslie