Q. I usually pack on some extra pounds around the holidays and then spend the next 10 months trying to divest myself of them. How can I change that?

A. I agree with a recent quote by Dr. Daniel Amen: “Most weight problems occur between the ears...in your brain.”Pretty much starts and ends in the brain.” Therefore, I suggest you explore what is different for you around the holidays, what beliefs you have absorbed about eating during these seasons, and expectations of yourself or others that may be impacting your behaviors. Check out my article entitled, The Diet Trap...and How to Escape. It contains strategies to help you with the yo-yo of eating.