If you are cooking at home, you are not processing your foods like the snack food companies are.

Having a clearly articulated goal and a plan of action is vital for dieting success.

It's the extra calories like the oil and the butter and mayonnaise that really add up.

Going on a diet doesn't mean limiting your foods. So many food shows and books are geared toward healthier, lighter cooking. Your choices are endless. People have to realize that cooking at home takes extra time and work, but there's a big long-term pay off.

People often think that light cooking is bland and boring, causing them to only stick with healthier eating for the short term. But if you use lots of flavorful ingredients such as fresh herbs, fruit juices, garlic and other strong seasonings, low-fat/low-calorie cooking can be very delicious and satisfying, helping people to stick to a healthy eating pattern for a lifetime.

Some are eating foods because they're happy, some are eating foods to feel better.

Take a step back, socialize, and think about the spirit of the holiday: It is not just about the food.