Putting on a few pounds after a round of holiday meals is not inevitable if you use a few of these simple eating strategies.

• Don't skip breakfast. If you starve yourself all day in anticipation of the big meal, you're more likely to overeat and feel uncomfortable. You might want to eat a lighter breakfast than normal, but don't skip it.

• If you're asked to contribute to the meal, bring a low-fat or low-calorie dish that you know you can enjoy without guilt. Fresh veggies and dips, fresh fruit, low-calorie casseroles or low-fat fruit desserts are always good options.

• Drink as much water as you can before and during the meal.

• Replace pre-meal nibbling by sipping water or a low-calorie beverage and munching on fresh veggies and healthy dip.

• Get at the end of the line if the meal is being served buffet-style. That will give you less time to go back for seconds.

• Fill up your plate with low-fat items such as white meat turkey, roasted vegetables, green salads, and either fresh fruit or a fruit dessert.

• Go easy on the veggies covered in cheese and breadcrumbs.

• Select a whole grain roll if they're available and leave off the butter.

• Use a salad plate instead of a large dinner plate to help with portion control.

• Keep healthy proportions in mind as you fill your plate: One half of your plate should be vegetables, one fourth protein, and one fourth carbohydrate.

• Keep up with the calories you drink. One 5-ounce glass of white wine has about 145 calories.

• Finish your meal with a cup of hot tea or coffee. While you're sipping, you'll have time to receive the signal from your body that it's full.

• Practice saying, ''No, thank you. I've had plenty.'' And mean it.

• Excuse yourself from the table after the meal so you won't be tempted to keep nibbling. If possible, go outside and take a brisk walk.

• Volunteer for a clean-up chore that is away from the kitchen so you won't be tempted to keep eating.