Well, it’s here, the best time of the year. Christmas is coming and everyone’s spirits are high. This also tends to be the time of year when little dieters and exercisers take some time off. It’s cold outside and we aren’t yet used to it. Stores are full of delicious treats, and extended family time means extended meal time. There are reasons Santa is so fat.

Now, I think the holidays are a time when everyone should relax a little bit when it comes to monitoring caloric intake, because, eating holiday treats is one of the best ways to spread holiday cheer (that, and, singing loud for all to hear). When you’re out ice skating, you shouldn’t have to say no to the hot chocolate. If you deprive yourself of all of the holiday favorites, you’re bound to turn into kind of a Grinch, but there is a fine line between indulging a bit and losing yourself in the eggnog bath that is this month.

I’m a big fan of the old, “knowledge is power,” so I thought I’d spend today to shine a light on a few treats to avoid, the enemies of Christmas diet-control.

The Starbucks Holiday Drinks. They’re the devil, and they’re so hard to resist. Living in Boston, there is a Starbucks on every corner, sometimes two. So, when you’re out doing all of your Christmas shopping, what is better to put you in the mood than a Peppermint Mocha? Eggnog Latte? Well, beware, my friends.

The Eggnog Latte 

The Caramel Brulee Latte

If you still want to have one of these, I would recommend it, because they are delicious. But, skip the whipped cream, and get a small. You don’t want to be drinking the equivalent of a meal, because those holiday meals are pretty yummy too!