During the holidays you are thinking about parties, fun and food, but in the back of your mind you are also thinking about that dreadful weight gain.

When the holiday season approaches some people just stop their healthy program and throw in the towel until after New Years and others starve themselves until they binge.

Life doesn't have to be so demanding. You can enjoy yourself and still keep your figure. Thanksgiving and Christmas doesn't have to have a negative impact. The trick is to keep a balance.

Eat sensibly and exercise. This will prevent excess weight from creeping up and make your weight-loss resolution that much easier come January 1st.

Below are some simple steps on how to avoid that 5 to 10 pound holiday weight gain between Thanksgiving and New Years.

Start before Thanksgiving, not after New Years. Tossing everything aside and waiting for January is a cop-out. Accept responsibility, take charge, and make a difference.

Tip 1 - Devise a daily menu and exercise plan. Put it in writing and hang it where you will see it the most. Also, hang a copy on your refrigerator. Continue to eat your regularly scheduled healthy meals, and eat party treats in moderation. Have protein bars and MRP's handy.

Tip 2 - Eat normally, even if there is an event later. This will keep your blood sugar stable and prevent overeating and binging. This does not mean you can't indulge; it just keeps you in control. If you starve yourself for the party, you will binge for sure, feel sick, then regret it all night, making you spiral down the next days.

Tip 3 - When you attend parties or events, start off with healthy choices and snacks. Such as fruit, veggies, salads, and meat. You won't be inclined to indulge in the sugar goodies as fast. Notice I didn't say you can't have the sweet treats, they are perfectly fine during this time, if they are kept in moderation and eaten last.

Tip 4 - Drink water or diet sodas at gatherings and limit the alcohol. A drink or two is fine, but if you want to remain fit, it's best to limit them. Red wine would be the best choice for an alcoholic beverage.

Tip 5 - Exercise every day, even if you can only get 10 minutes in. However, don't opt for just a mere 10 minutes if you have time to get a full 20 to 30 minutes in. The point is that some exercise is far better than no exercise.

The above are basic guidelines to help keep you on track during the toughest months in the year. Good luck and Happy Holidays!