Have an eating plan before holiday gatherings begin

DEAR DOCTORS: We have young kids, so our holiday party season starts right around Halloween. I just turned 40, and I've noticed it’s getting harder to lose the weight I gain this time of year. I need a plan so things don't get out of control.

- ■DR EVE GLAZIER & DR ELIZABETH ΚΟ

DEAR READER: When it comes to putting on a kilo or two during the autumn and winter holidays, you are far from alone. The data show that by the time the festivities are over, many people have gained a bit of weight. For most, it stays somewhere in the range of half-a-kilo to several. In the big picture, that may not sound like much.

However, when small increases become cumulative, it can begin to affect your health.