Tip # 1: Practice Damage Control

This is not the time of year to go on a strict diet; it's a time to try to give into your cravings in a controllled manner.

Tip # 2: Bring a healthy dish to the holiday party

Here are some easy potluck contributions:

- Hummus platter with vegetable crudite

- Mixed green salad topped with any type of beans and balsamic vinaigrette

- Shrimp cocktail

- Quinoa with vegetables

Tip # 3: Jazz up your grains

It's easy to give your grain dishes more of a nutritional boost. Quinoa, which is an easy pot luck idea mentioned above, is a whole grain that is high in protein (which will help you feel full on fewer calories). By stretching this dish over vegetables you slash half the calories and add nutrients. 

Tip # 4:  Never go to a party hungry!

You never want to eat something too small or too large before the holiday party. Go for a dish that contains a little bit of protein and carbs and is under 200 calories. Try a small apple with a scoop of peanut butter or Greek yogurt with a sprinkle of nuts. 

Tip # 5: Beware of your beverage intake

 Limit yourself to 1 - 2 party drinks. One standard drink is a 12 ounces of beer, five ounces of wine or an ounce-and-a-half of 80 proof liquor.