Just in time for the holidays here are a few tips and tricks that you can use to avoid putting on those extra pounds this holiday season.IBT Reporter Amanda Remling spoke with Amethyst Tate to flesh out exactly what it is that causes us to gain weight during the holidays and what steps we can take to avoid it.The first tip Tate gave us was to never skip meals, especially breakfast. According to Tate breakfast amps up your metabolism and gives you energy for the day. It also prevents you from snacking during the day.Exercising is also key. Tate said that during the winter season people tend to skip workouts more often. Make sure to set aside at least 30 minutes every day to devote to exercise. This will also help you deal with stress and suppress your appetite according to Tate.The last tip Tate left us with is to avoid high fat foods. Tate’s favorite way to swap out bad for good? Instead of cheese on her salad she uses goldfish.