During holiday parties and at family dinners, feel free to sample foods although you shouldn't splurge. Decide on what you plan to eat in advance, then stick to your plan. Eat plenty of vegetables, fruit, low fat dressings, and slices of lean meats. Before you go to a party, eat a small snack to help curb your appetite.

Most popular foods don't have enough fiber. If you like the more popular foods, you probably need to increase your intake of fiber. 4. Grains offer the most fiber. Dietary fiber is actually plant matter that we cannot digest. The best sources are whole grains and concentrated grain products. 5. Kids need fiber as well.

Eat because you are hungry, not because of stress, boredom, or to kill time. In your car Keep some healthy snacks in your car at all times, so that when you get hungry - you have them. At home Evenings and mornings are busy times in most homes. Making the time to eat can be hard, although you shouldn't run out the door without eating breakfast first.

The USDA recommends eating beans at least 4 times per week. If you experience gas after eating beans you should try washing them, covering them with water, bringing the water to a boil, then draining it off and refilling the pot. 6. If you live in a coastal area or an area where fish are around, make that an integral part of your diet.

- If you get full, take half of your meal home. The second portion of your meal can serve as a second meal later. This way, you get two meals for the price of one. - If you're looking to eat less, order two appetizers or an appetizer and a salad as your meal. - If you get a choice of side dishes, get a baked potato or steamed vegetables instead of french fries.

You should also shop for breakfast foods with your kids and take into account their personal preferences. 6. Set the cereal out the night before. For younger children, fill a zippered plastic bag with her portion, then add the milk in the morning. 7. Allow your children to use the microwave often, as most breakfast foods can be prepared in under 5 minutes.