Timing. If you plan on attending three holiday parties in one night, try and get a feel for what each party will be serving (is it a dinner party? passed appetizers? casual potluck?). You can gauge where you plan on eating the meal or the dessert and can plan accordingly so that your waistline doesn't expand as the night wears on! Don't overindulge.

Skip the pre-packaged goods. If you are going to spend your holidays enjoying the well thought-out dinner menu or appetizer selection of your party host, forgo the store-bought cookies and chips and dip. Enjoy the homemade lasagna or fresh-baked cookies instead. Chances are you will enjoy them more, and snacking won't give you the allowance to eat what you want later. Save your tummy space for the good stuff!

Limit alcoholic calories. We all want to enjoy a cocktail or two with friends, but you will be able to enjoy the night more if you take it slow with the alcohol. Not only do you not want to make a scene at the party, you also want to save the calories for the delicious food your hosts have in store for you and the other party guests. Try and drink a low calorie vodka and tonic- soda water adds calories! Try a spritzer with fizzy water to keep your stomach calm and the calories down, or make every other drink a glass of water.

Replace chips and crackers with veggies. Feel free to enjoy the veggie platter, or replace crackers with lettuce cups for lighter appetizer eats. If you are the party host, offer other veggies like radishes and an assortment of peppers- people tend to get bored with the usual cauliflower and celery option. Color adds a punch to the plate and the crisp flavors will have you reaching for smaller amounts of that cheesy artichoke dip!

Looking for more ways to avoid weight gain? Look no further than right here!