Lighten up…it’s only food! I know we all tend to freak out a bit when the holidays start to roll around, and worry about overdoing it. Contrary to what you might have heard, the average weight gain is around a pound, not five to ten. Simple things can help keep you and that appetite under control; drinking more water before big meals (no, not eggnog) to fill the tummy. Remembering to start with veggies on the plate, and to make sure you offer healthier versions without heavy sauces. Speaking of which, one of our favorites, the cranberry relish can be loaded with sugar, but why not try a lighter version from thatsfit.com? They have a variety of recipes that are great for the holidays. Believe me, once you start using fresh ingredients for your flavor, you’ll never go back.  And of course, it’s fine to indulge as long as you keep up the exercise as well. One of my favorite things after a big meal is a long walk, and maybe save dessert for later. And why not take into account what we do on a daily basis and use that in our routine for staying fit? MedicineNet has the kind of common sense advice and tips that can make a big difference.

One of my favorite recipes is for a Banana Mocha Chocolate Chip Muffin, that’s a big hit around here, and I’ve stayed away from using sour cream, and going for more flavor with yogurts. The low fat versions offer a wide variety of flavors. I found a honey almond from *Archer Farms in Target that was very good, and its fun to play with the different varieties and see what makes your taste buds happy.

I’d love to know your special recipes for the holidays and what little secrets you might have to keep things under control in the kitchen. Drop me a line in Kelly’s Kitchen and let’s share the foodie love! For the first three suggestions, you'll win a copy of "The Hungry Girl Supermarket Survival Guide." She rocks!

WORDS OF WISDOM FROM KELLY’S KITCHEN

The biggest seller is cookbooks and the second is diet books - how not to eat what you've just learned how to cook.  ~Andy Rooney

*Ann Kelly is a paid endorser for Target.