Lighten up a holiday meal with easy changes

SAN DIEGO COUNTY - Pie, mashed potatoes, cookies, and carved ham – these are just a few of the popular seasonal dishes people tend to consume more of during the holidays. According to Katie Ferraro, M.P.H., R.D., C.D.E., nutrition expert for TOPS Club, Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), the nonprofit weight-loss support organization, the holidays don’t have to sabotage a family’s healthy meal planning.

“Use parties and family get-togethers as an opportunity to try out new, healthier recipes and to incorporate several of the following tips into upcoming celebrations,” said Ferraro. “Special...