Over-indulgence doesn't have to be a holiday tradition

Mmmm … turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie and other tempting treats.

Many of us just write off our diets this time of year and resign ourselves to eating badly and lots of it.

Why not make this year different?

After all, holiday eating is fun, but holiday weight gain is not.

This year, let's put an end to the holiday weight gain cliche. But, where do you start?

Before you go out to a holiday party or gathering, eat a light, healthy snack.

This could be fruit, cereal, a little bowl of soup or some carrot sticks — anything that's healthy and will help you to curb your hunger and make better choices later.

Bring a low-fat dish to holiday parties. A veggie platter with light ranch dressing or festive fruit salads are great choices.

Not only will other guests thank you, but you'll have something to eat that you know won't pack on the pounds.

Make sure you load up on the salad and veggie courses. As a rule of thumb, vegetables should take up at least half of your plate, then a modest portion of meat and lastly, a small portion of carbs.

Speaking of carbs, alcohol is full of them — and empty calories.

Limit yourself to one drink and then switch to water. Better yet, volunteer to be a designated driver so you won't be tempted.

Not only will you be sparing yourself the extra calories, but you'll also be helping yourself and others get home safely.

Exercise usually goes by the wayside at this time of year.

The weather is uninviting, the days are shorter, and with all the hustle and bustle there just doesn't seem to be time.

But even a short walk after dinner can help keep your energy levels up and your desire for dessert down.

Most importantly, eat for you own individual health needs.

If you are diabetic, make sure you're following the low-carb diet you need to stay healthy.

If your heart is the trouble, stay away from fried foods and saturated fats. Alcohol can sometimes react very badly with certain medications.

Carefully read the warning labels on all your medications before you indulge in a glass.

Like so many things in life, sometimes it's better to say "no, thank you" when all we really want to say is, "Yes, please!"

My grandmother always says, "everything in moderation."

I think she might be on to something …