Keeping the Pounds Off During the Holidays Can Be a Real Challenge

When it comes to keeping weight off, I have an advantage over most people, as I've had Lap Band surgery. Even so, it doesn't mean I can eat anything I like. How can we all keep off extra pounds during the holidays?

I don't eat much, but I do have to be careful about what I do eat. I have to avoid high calorie liquids and ice cream because those foods get by my banded stomach.

It's estimated that many people will gain ten to 15 pounds between Thanksgiving and New Years. How can you avoid that?

I found a few tips from Health.com that could be really helpful.

Don't wait until the new year to start an exercise plan. Establish your routine now so when the new year gets here, you will be in the groove.
Focus on one healthy habit. When you're at a holiday get together, maybe skip the alcohol or avoid the appetizers, turn your back on the desserts. Choosing one thing will make it easier to stick to a plan.
If you're faced with a buffet, use a small plate so it's filled up fast and the portion is limited. Also sit at least 20 feet from the buffet line so you won't be as easily tempted to go back for more.
Carry a glass of water in one hand and maybe your phone in the other. That will make it harder to just grab another cocktail.
Have a "Morning After Plan." If you're going to indulge, have an exercise session planned for the next day to burn off some of that indulgence.
Work off dessert!
The treat: 3 milk chocolate truffles: 220 calories
Burn it off! 45-minute cardio/sculpt workout video: 214 calories
The treat: 3 Christmas cookies: 360 calories
Burn it off! 45-minute spin class: 455 calories
The treat: 3 squares of peppermint bark: 200 calories
Burn it off! 35-minute brisk walk: 208 calories
The treat: 1 slice of coffee cake: 550 calories
Burn it off! 90 minutes of skiing: 568 calories
The treat:1 slice of pecan pie: 503 calories
Burn it off! 1 hour of ice-skating: 500 calories