by Lauren Moss

Created on: November 13, 2008   Last Updated: December 10, 2008

Paranoid about packing on those holiday pounds? You're not alone. Statistics have shown that the average American gains one pound every holiday season. And though one pound might not seem like much, over the course of 20 years they can really add up. But with careful planning you can prevent the pounds from piling on and still enjoy the festive season! Here are five simple ideas to help you steer clear of the many holiday temptations:

Don't Forget to Eat

As strange as it may seem, eating regular meals on holidays is key to avoid gorging yourself later. Skipping meals because you want to "save" calories for a party sets you up for losing control and overeating. Start your day with a light breakfast, making sure to include healthy protein, and follow it with a sensible lunch. Your body won't be deprived and you won't feel guilty for eating an entire pie later on!

Watch Your Portion Sizes

Be sensible when you are going down that holiday buffet line. Yes, the mashed potatoes look fluffy. Yes, the turkey is perfect. And if you have the correct servings you will be fine. But heaping helpings of holiday food will quickly expand your waistline. Remember that more is not usually better. Use these visuals to help you gauge the correct portion sizes:

A serving of vegetables or fruit is about the size of your fist. Pasta is about the size of one scoop of ice cream. Meat, fish, or poultry is the size of a deck of cards or the size of your palm (minus the fingers). Snacks such as pretzels or chips is about the size of a cupped handful. And a serving of potatoes is about the size of a computer mouse.

And try using a smaller plate. You will eat less.

Avoid Liquid Calories

When drinking at your holiday festivities it is important to use moderation and choose wisely. Alcohol may go down quickly, but it is loaded with empty calories. One vodka martini has over 200 calories. On the other hand, a 4 oz glass of red wine has only 85. Also be careful of high calorie non-alcoholic drinks like hot chocolate and eggnog. My recommendation: drink water. It will help keep you full so you won't want to eat as much, and it will keep your skin hydrated during the dry winter months.

Make Time to Exercise

Keeping active during the holiday season is the best tool you have to keep off those pounds. Commit to do at least 15 minutes of physical activity every day during the holidays. Exercise will not only help you keep off those extra pounds, but it will lower stress and help you relax. Yes, I know this is the busiest time of the year. Do it anyway. Take the stairs; go for a walk after you eat; park farther away from the mall. You can find 15 minutes to take care of your body. You will enjoy the holiday much more if you are feeling good about youself.

Forgive Yourself

We all slip a bit during the holidays. Whether it is the delicious looking pie, cake, or your grandma's potatoes, we will all go a bit overboard at times. Don't beat yourself up. Don't let one mistake ruin all of your good work. Shake it off, get back on track, and remember that you won't let one meal derail your entire holiday season!

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