Many of my fondest memories take me back to my grandparents' home where I partook in the delicious food they would prepare. Both of my grandparents loved to cook, especially during the holidays. They prepared special dishes that were so delicious we would eat until we thought we were going to burst. After dinner we would have dessert and then, just as we made our way to a couch or the floor just to get into a horizontal position, they would bring out a large platter of cookies, candy and "soda pop." Shortly after that they would bring out the leftovers for "round two." Does this sound familiar?

Whatever the season, it seems that gatherings of family, friends and even co-workers are usually accented with an overabundance of food. It can be a challenge for any health-conscious person to keep on course. The good news is that there are some simple strategies you can use to avoid gaining those extra pounds while still enjoying some of those traditional foods. It will require thought, planning and some sacrifice too, but you can be successful!

Here are a few simple strategies you can put to use immediately to help you navigate your way through parties or family gatherings in a healthful, sensible way.

Let's face it: Eating is fun. You don't have to feel deprived of your favorite foods, but skip the ones you don't thoroughly enjoy. It is easy to eat hundreds of extra calories each day from foods you could really live without.

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