How to avoid packing on weight during the holidays

Thanksgiving is about spending time with loved ones and of course eating great food. Health experts say there is a way to enjoy the tasty food with out putting on holiday weight.

According to the Calorie Control Council,  Americans take in 4,500 calories during Thanksgiving dinner. With back to back holidays, those calories can tally up and eventually turn into pounds.

Trainers at Powerhouse Gym says there is a way to have your turkey and eat it too, without packing on the pounds.

One way is by starting your day with a little exercise.

Jesseca Brown, the Personal Training Coordinator at Powerhouse Gym says, "If you have a dog, maybe take your dog on a walk a couple of times, making sure they get out and you get out. I know my family does a big family football game, so kids are out there running out there as well."

Brown also recommends not skimping out on breakfast, so you don't stuff your face come dinnertime. "

"So that way you're revving up your metabolism to move throughout the day," says Brown.

And finally if you're in charge of desserts, Brown recommends swapping out some of the ingredients for healthier choices..

"Some of our trainers are actually great at baking. So they bake thinks that have lower calories,  or use substitutes such as Greek yogurt, or things like that," says Brown.