Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Give something you would like to receive, possibly a fruit basket or some low fat muffins. The favour just may be returned.


Take a vegetable or fruit plate to a party. Be the designated driver. Save your friends and your waistline at the same time.


Order soda water with a twist of lime or lemon at cocktail parties. It looks like an alcoholic drink but without all the extra calories.


Don't let family or friends pressure you into overindulging. When they say 'You have nothing to worry about — you're fine as you are' reply: 'The reason I'm fine is because I've worked hard to lose the weight, and I'm not going to blow it now'.


Be assertive. Refuse food and drinks if you don't want them.


At a buffet, limit the number of choices on your plate. Enjoy a few smart selections instead of giving in to overzealous sampling.


Keep your hands full of anything but food. Take along photos, a branch of mistletoe, a camera or anything else that will keep your hands occupied.


Plan a guilt-free event — organise a dance party and serve a hearty buffet of veggies and low-fat dips.


Deliver cards in person to your neighbours and/or friends. Do it on foot and get a little exercise while you boost your community spirit.


Give party leftovers and gifts of cakes, biscuits and chocolates to the local food shelter. You'll remove rich foods from your grasp and provide a treat to those in need.


Keep your mind off food and your heart in the right place by volunteering. Charity organisations, toy drives and other endeavours can use all the help they can get.


Give your New Year's weight loss resolution a trial run — start it before the festive season instead of after!


If you slip a little off track, don't dwell on it. That doesn't solve anything and can ruin your holiday fun. Just learn from the mistake, make sure to weigh in as usual and most of all, keep your sense of humour and good cheer.