Expert Q&A: Holiday Foods That Wreck Your Waistline

Dips

Dips are one of the more dangerous choices on the appetizer table. You don't know what's in them! Saturated fat from creams and cheeses and sodium are common culprits (often found in creamy spinach and artichoke dips). When you can, opt for protein-rich dips such as hummus, or even salsa, over the creamy ones!

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Unless you are making them, watch your portions as they have likely been prepared with cream and butter. Also, if you're not active during the holidays, try to control your portions of carbohydrate-rich foods like potatoes, stuffing, and breads.

Eggnog

Before you toast the holiday season with a glass of eggnog, consider this: An 8-oz. serving can easily exceed 250 calories and five grams of saturated fat. (Wouldn't you rather have dessert?) Choose a 4 oz. glass of wine instead, or lighten it up even more as a spritzer.