Eat Before To Keep Weight Off After

Eating before heading out to parties and other festivities this holiday season can help avoid unwanted pounds.

"Moderation is the key," said Dr. John Foreyt with the DeBakey Heart Center at Baylor College of Medicine.

Many times, people eat because food is available, not just to satisfy hunger. Eating a snack ahead of time will cut down on the amount of food eaten at a party, or curb the urge to nibble altogether, Dr. Foreyt said.

It's also important to work exercise into the holiday routine, he advised. If the gym is not a possibility, park further away from the stores when shopping, or walk a lap around the mall.

Focusing on family and friends and other holiday activities instead of food will help keep hands out of the cookie jar, and extra pounds off the body, Dr. Foreyt said.

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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