Eating Light Tip #11: Bring a Clutch

Hold it in one hand and a drink in the other. “When your hands are occupied,” says Richter, “it’s tough to reach for that mini quiche!” For more of the best diet tips to avoid holiday weight gain, check out these strategies from Bob Greene, trusted trainer to Oprah Winfrey.

Eating Light Tip #12: Do a Once-Over

Instead of blindly loading your plate with every finger food in sight, take a moment to scan the spread of party food so you know exactly what you have to choose from. Then help yourself to two or three things you truly love. Or try these easy recipes for some of our favorite diet-friendly appetizers.

Eating Light Tip #13: Back Away from the Buffet

“An important party rule is don’t linger by the food,” says Brian Wansink, Ph.D., author of Mindless Eating: Why We Eat More Than We Think. “If it’s right in front of you, you’ll be more tempted to pick at it—even if you’re stuffed.” Be prepared for your next holiday party with this guide to the best and worst foods from a buffet.

Eating Light Tip #14: Cook with Yogurt

Substitute nonfat plain yogurt for sour cream in recipes like mashed potatoes and you’ll save a whopping 341 calories and 45 grams of fat per cup. Plus, you’ll add a dose of calcium (this flavor-packed snack is another great source of calcium).

Eating Light Tip #15: Break from Traditional Foods

Instead of baking a holiday ham, consider roasting a pork tenderloin. One 3-ounce serving of the lean meat contains 122 calories and 3 grams of fat, compared with ham’s 228 calories and 16 grams of fat. Serve it with fruit compote.