Unfortunately, too many people fall victim to the old cliche of packing on the pounds during the holiday season. If you're careful though, one can survive December without taking a hit to your waistline or your blood pressure.

From the American Heart Association:

The weather outside is frightful, but finding time for physical activity is delightful! After all, any exercise moves you toward a healthier heart.

Gaining weight is one holiday tradition that no one wants to keep. Mastering a few cooking techniques can help you create a healthier diet without losing out on flavor.

Just as important as a healthy diet is exercise. It’s important to maintain your physical activity during the holidays – the American Heart Association recommends 30 minutes or more of exercise most days of the week.

The Center for Disease Control has tips for calorie-cutting during this season of rich food, stiff drinks, and excess:

* Bowls of fresh fruit are a festive and sweet substitute for candy or chocolates.
* Remember calories add up! This is especially true during the holidays when we snack more. For a healthy snack, choose a piece of fresh fruit.
* You’ve tried the leftover turkey sandwich; now try the leftover turkey salad! Add a few pieces of turkey to a generous portion of mixed greens, cucumbers, mushrooms, peppers, or any other vegetables you like. Sprinkle with dried cranberries for that authentic holiday taste.

And finally, some healthy gift ideas for friends and family from Lifespan:

Fitness - a health club membership, home equipment, even hand weights), or a few sessions with a personal trainer

Exercise Gear - Helmets and gloves (bikers), water packs (runners), goggles (swimmers), or a great-looking exercise outfit

Stress Busters - gift certificates for a massage or a facial, classes in yoga or audio cassettes demonstrating relaxation techniques

Food - baskets containing a collection of colorful dried beans labeled with cooking instructions, an array of gourmet pastas, or dried fruits and vegetables

Information - healthy cookbooks or consumer-oriented medical handbooks