(Distributed 12/07/09) Walking in a winter wonderland abundant with holiday sights, sounds, and smells can seduce shoppers to spend dangerously.

(Distributed 12/04/09) If you’re one of the many Americans who face the holiday season with some fear of gaining weight, the good news is that although many people gain weight from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, research suggests that the gain will probably be only 1 pound, not 5, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed 12/04/09) Physical activity is important all year, but it can be especially helpful during the holidays when you may be eating more than usual, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed 12/03/09) Make sure your holiday treats containing eggs – such as eggnog, cream pies and similar dishes – are safe to eat, LSU AgCenter experts warn.

(Distributed 12/03/09) Christmas tree and holiday decoration shopping has started, and an LSU AgCenter expert has some guidelines for buying poinsettias.

(Distributed 11/23/09) As Louisiana cooks shop for their Thanksgiving meal, they’ll find costs for the basic dinner items down about nine percent from last year, according LSU AgCenter family economist Dr. Jeanette Tucker. The 2009 Thanksgiving market basket will average $37.52 for 10 people, compared to $41.30 last year.

(Distributed 11/20/09) Try a different tack as you head into this holiday season. Vow to move more and eat less, says Heli Roy, LSU AgCenter nutritionist. “Most people invariably gain weight over the holidays – anywhere from a half pound to five pounds,” Roy said. “But you don’t have to, and most people can’t afford to.”

(Distributed 11/16/09) Don't have room in your oven for the turkey, dressing, sweet potatoes, casseroles and pies? LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames suggests you can free-up oven space by frying the turkey outside.

(Distributed 11/10/09) Pies are traditionally served at most Thanksgiving feasts. To prevent food-borne illness, refrigerate pies such as pumpkin, custard and other cream pies containing eggs and milk, says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames.

(Distributed 11/06/09) Thanksgiving is a perfect time to enjoy Louisiana yams. The Louisiana yam is an exceptional type of sweet potato – sweet and flavorful, with a soft, moist flesh, says LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames .