During the Holidays we need to remember our weight will increase if we eat everything put in front of us. We will be tempted with the most sinful and tempting food and drink on the planet.

I decided to list my ten worst Holiday foods. Remember weight is calories in minus calories out; most of us eat 1500-2500 calories per day. Unless you plan on running a marathon, you probably won’t burn any additional calories. So unless you wish to gain weight over the holidays watch your intake. Don’t forget to sip on water to eliminate dehydration, which you may be mistaking for hunger. Water also fills your stomach temporarily.

An occasional treat is fine, as long as you know when to walk away.

10. Spinach Artichoke Dip with Chips: 220 calories for a few servings. Scoop your dip with five tortilla chips and its over 300 calories.
9. Vegetable Egg Rolls: 200 calories for just one small egg roll.
8. Sweet Potato Casserole: 450 calories per serving. The sweet potato loses its nutritional value in this dish.
7. Eggnog: 350 calories per cup—before you add booze.
6. Vegetable Quesadilla: 585 calories.
5. Pigs in a Blanket: 70 calories each. I ate 10 at Summit’s Halloween party for 700 calories.
4. Cream-Based Soups: 165 Calories per cup.
3. Pecan Pie: There is no pie that has more calories—800 calories per slice.
2. Mixed Nuts: 340 calories per handful.
1. Chocolate Candies: 150-200 calories per each little sinful piece.

Now the good news. There are also wonderful foods. Things like turkey (white meat), sweet potatoes, pomegranates, pecans and cranberries are super foods—if they are prepared correctly.
Good luck and everyone at Summit wishes you and yours a warm holiday season.
Please send your own knowledge and column ideas in!

Tom Thompson can be emailed at tomskilaw@gmail.com