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You walk into Mom's kitchen The smell of turkey and corn bread stuffing permeates the air. Pies; apple, cherry and pumpkin sit side by side, cooling on a shelf.

Will you give in to an overactive fork again this year? How can you resist? Below are suggestions which hopefully will help you avoid the holiday bulge.

(1) Don't wait until you're seated at the dinning room table. By then it's too late. Give yourself at least ten days before the holidays begin. Write your goal on paper and read it every day. Or share your resolution with friends. Going public strengthens your commitment

(2) Those pretty dishes filled with candy and nuts can really add the calories. Once you start it's hard to quit.

(3) A smaller plate holds less food, but it still appears plentiful. This way you won't feel as if you're cutting back.

(4) Take time to enjoy your food. Savor the taste. By eating slowly your blood sugar level has time to raise and will indicate that you are full sooner.

(5) You will not feel nearly as hungry if you have liquids in your stomach before you eat. It will help cut back your appetite.

(6) Your body needs to burn the calories you just consumed. Better to take an easy stroll around the block or help Mom clean up. Keep moving.

(7) It's so tempting to pop a bit of turkey or left over pie into your mouth as you clean off the table. It seems innocent enough but innocence carries calories.

(8) With all that food lying around, your mind can trick you into thinking that you're hungry even after a big meal. If this happens, shove a stick of gum into your mouth or chew on a celery stick. Crunchy food satisfies this urge more than soft food.

(9) Foods such a salad, vegetables and breast of turkey carry less calories and will fill you up as much as mashed potatoes and gravy.

(10) There's no rule that says you have to clean up your plate. When you're full push back your chair and leave the table.

(11)You can still enjoy a piece of Mom's homemade pie, but in a smaller proportion.

You may want to add several of your own ideas to help avoid the holiday bulge. The main idea is to develop a plan early and stick to it. Remember, you don't have to go without. With just a few minor changes, you can enjoy your favorite foods and walk away with a clear conscience.

Keep in mind this slogan if you feel your resolve weakening: A moment on your lips, forever on your hips.

Learn more about this author, Carol Gustke.
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