How to Handle Sweet Gifts

You reach under the tree, pull out a present, and rip off the wrapping paper to reveal — a tin of caramel-covered popcorn! If you're following The South Beach Diet™ lifestyle, you already know that sugary sweets can cause cravings and throw your healthy eating plans way off track.

That's not to say you can't indulge a little — these are the holidays, after all! But it helps to have an action plan in place — that way, when your co-worker shows up with a festive block of fudge, you'll know just what to do.

 Have plenty of spare ribbon and colorful cellophane on hand so you can rewrap Christmas cookies (and other sweets) to give to your mail carrier, dry cleaner, or babysitter. Find a festive serving platter and bring tempting sweets you received to the next holiday party, where they can be shared and enjoyed by other partygoers. Consider a gift swap with a family member or friend.

Did your neighbor receive a carton of fresh citrus fruits? Perhaps she'd be willing to trade it for your fancy box of chocolate-covered nuts.

Drop hints to your family and close friends. Is there something special you've had your eye on? Tell your aunt you've been admiring the latest wine opener — then hope that she takes the hint and sends it to you in lieu of her traditional fruitcake!

Remember that holidays come but once a year. It's OK to allow yourself a few bites of your favorite holiday pie or, best of all, a little dark chocolate (which is good for your heart!) — as long as the rest of your meals and snacks fit The South Beach Diet™ healthy eating guidelines.

If you continue to follow The South Beach Diet™ lifestyle as best you can, you'll stay on track and avoid those excess holiday pounds.