This week, we're going to discuss a rather big lifestyle change. This is a change that I struggle with each year. In other words, the only time you'll have to think about this lifestyle change is during the winter months. You know what I'm talking about. The weather starts to turn cold, Thanksgiving dinner's on the table and, bam, it's New Year's Day, and you're 10 pounds heavier. What happened? All you remember is being in a carb-induced coma for the past few weeks. Don't worry. It happens to all us at some point. But this year, you're going to work towards making a change. Thanksgiving will no longer be the beginning of a month-long free forall.

Why is this lifestyle change so hard to make? Truthfully, I think it begins with leftovers. You prepare a huge Thanksgiving feast, and then munch on it for a couple days. Instead of consuming a single thousand-calorie meal, you consume several in only two or three days. There are a few ways to avoid this bad beginning. First of all, consider going out for Thanksgiving dinner. If that isn't an option, send leftovers home with relatives. Another option is to prepare homemade TV dinners and freeze them for a later date.

What else contributes to this mighty free for all? One problem lies in holiday parties. They begin in early December and run through New Year's. They're filled with cakes, cookies, cocktails and other high-calorie treats. Thankfully, a healthy meal before heading to a party can help cut the amount of calories you consume.

Last, but not least, stop bringing home so many treats. Yes, the eggnog looks delicious. But wouldn't it be more of a treat if you only consumed it on Christmas? The same goes for butter cookies, homemade candy and hot chocolate. I'm not saying you should give these treats up. What I am saying is moderation is key. Enjoy your favorite foods on the holidays, not throughout the entire month of December.

Now, go watch some holiday movies and enjoy the season.