BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- From egg nog and cookies to stuffing and pie, the holiday season is loaded with tasty treats to enjoy. So how can you attend those tree-trimming parties and keep trim yourself?

The key is to have a game plan in place before heading out the door.

First, never go to a party hungry. Eat a small salad or something with protein, such as an egg, to keep yourself satisfied.

Don't refill your glass with alcohol every time -- alternate with water to keep your calorie count down.

If you deny yourself a favorite sweet, you may feel deprived and binge later. You can have that slice of cheesecake or a sugar cookie -- just don't double up on the desserts.

To compensate for extra calories, increase your exercise. This will help lower stress levels as well and make you less likely to overeat for emotional reasons.

And finally, make holiday plans that are less centered on food -- go ice-skating or have a family game night rather than baking more cookies.

Source: Advice from diet and nutrition experts consulted by ABC News.