Skip the Holiday Bulge
Worried that the season of joy will mean an extra 10 pounds? Relax -- a little. "Most people don't gain as much as they think they will," says, David Harrison Levi. The trouble is, "the weight they do gain stays with them," he says. Here's how to avoid the love handles:



Bank your calories. It's common sense: If a big Thanksgiving meal is in your future, cut down on the treats and rev up your workout beforehand.


Case the joint. If you spot Aunt Molly's yummy coconut creme pie on the dessert table, skip the mashed potatoes and rolls so you'll have room for a slice.


Pass on seconds. Period.


Keep the food in the kitchen. Families tend to linger long at the holiday table, and if the food's in plain sight, it's easier to keep eating. Even if you're a guest, Levi says you can playfully suggest moving the food to the kitchen to avoid overcrowding the table.


Ride the crest. You're craving the leftover holiday cookies. Wait 10 minutes-- your desire will most likely pass.


Limit booze. Alcohol stimulates your appetite and lowers your ability to resist temptation. Stick to only one glass of wine, and pass on the spiked eggnog.


Get physical. When possible, plan family gatherings around ice skating, sledding, walking, or caroling. Avoid collecting calories, and burn them off instead.