Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and we all know what that means. Instead of laying in a supply of slimming pills for the damage control, think about these few tips that might help mitigate not only extra poundage during the holiday season, but cut down on indigestion and other assorted digestive ailments.

1. Keep healthy snacks on hand and easily accessible. If fresh veggies are already cut up and in the fridge, it’s just as easy to grab those than another slice of cheesecake. Okay, I know raw celery doesn’t hit the same spot at cheesecake, but work with me here. For a sweet tooth, keep fruit on hand and for those salt cravings, try a handful of nuts — much healthier. I’m not saying don’t have the cheesecake, just don’t choose it EVERY time.

2. Stay hydrated. Water, water, water. In the winter months, indoor air is dry and sometimes you may mistake simple thirst as hunger. When you’re over forty, increased water intake gives you nicer skin, keeps your electrolytes in balance, and of course, necessitates more trips to the bathroom. What can I say, everything has a price.

3. Take a hike. No, I don’t mean a trek into the mountains, unless that’s your “thing”, but hike thy buttocks around the block or take the dog for a jaunt. I promise ten minutes won’t kill you, honest, and it will make you feel better to get the blood pumping and take the edge off the munchies.

4. Save the fat and calories for the Big Meal. You don’t have to cook like Paula Dean every meal. Throw in some healthy dinners during the holiday season, and save the butter, heavy cream, and cheese for the actual holidays and try to watch it in between. Don’t play — you know holiday dinners don’t taste the same if you use low-cal low-fat choices, but for one day it’s all right. However, if you cook that way from Thanksgiving to Christmas your thighs are gonna hate you. Trust me on this.

5. Last but not least, don’t skip meals. Try to eat at regular intervals, including the dreaded breakfast. (No, coffee is not a food group.) You’re better off with six small meals a day than three big ones, keeping your metabolism revved up and the temptations at a minimum.

All these are simple behaviors you can implement to help you control the creeping poundage resulting from holiday over-indulgence and reduce digestive woes. Let’s face it, the holiday are stressful enough without adding bloating, cramping, and strange bowel actions to the mix.

That being said — pass the cheesecake.