Just Don't Eat That

The holidays -- prolonged festivals of seemingly unlimited food -- are bearing down on us. So, here's a survival tip: when you feel like eating (for the seventh time that day?), ask yourself, "Am I really hungry?" Stall by drinking a few glasses of water because you might be dehydrated. Water can also stave off hunger, to a degree.

Here are a few more ideas for how to stay in control of your eating during the holidays or any season.

If you're truly hungry, eat something you enjoy but in moderation. Eat slowly and mindfully. About halfway through, ask yourself "Am I still hungry?" And don't keep eating until your stomach gives you the answer, which can often take 15-20 minutes. If you're no longer hungry, stop eating and get away from the table.

If you feel like eating but realize you're not hungry, consider why you want to eat so you can respond to that trigger without food. If you're upset, try to address the reason for your worry. If you're stressed, breathe slowly and deeply, get up and walk around, exercise or phone a friend. If you're bored, do something. When was the last time you cleaned the house? Or jumped rope? Okay, there are myriad activities that might be more appealing to you. Just do them.

Look at your schedule and determine when you can fit exercise into your day. Can't find any time? Look again. Chances are, if it's an activity that appeals to you, you'll find 30 minutes you can do each day.

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