The holiday season brings eating and drinking temptations galore, and many people gain a pound or two – but usually not any more. The problem is that any weight gained during the holidays tends not to come off the rest of the year, unless you make a commitment to weight loss.

During the holidays we often indulge in rich foods we might not normally eat at other times of the year. LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Heli Roy says there are ways to enjoy these bountiful foods during this season and still maintain a healthy lifestyle.

If you gained weight in past Mardi Gras seasons, and weren’t happy about it, there are some preventive measures you can take this year. LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Heli Roy offers a number of tips.

Many of us have probably not thought of having a diary since we were in fourth grade and writing secretively about our boyfriends. But keeping a food diary or journal can be an important step in understanding your eating habits and what triggers excessive eating.

In an attempt to lose weight, some people try to eliminate all fats and oils from their diets. That’s a mistake, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

Many people likely think that excessive eating and zero exercise are the sole culprits for weight gain. The reality is that as few as 100 calories a day can make a major difference in weight gain or loss.

Sugar, or sucrose, is one of the most widely used ingredients in the foods we buy. All other sweeteners, basically, are compared to how they stack up against sugar. Learn the difference between nutritive and non-nutritive sweeteners and the upside and downside of using them. (PDF Format Only)

The holidays mark the season of shopping and eating. Busy shoppers may eat many meals at the mall. LSU AgCenter nutritionist, Dr. Beth Reames says to be sure and put something in your stomach before hitting the shops.