Just one U.S. holiday meal can contain thousands of calories -- roast goose alone is 784 calories a serving -- but desserts can really pack on calories.

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A slice of apple pie can contain around 500 calories. A bowl of Christmas pudding is about 400 calories per slice -- and that's not a la mode, reported Forbes magazine.

"Say no to eggnog and high dairy desserts like ice cream and remember that alcohol and high sodium foods like dips, chips and pastries can make for one bloated holiday," said Ashley Borden, a personal trainer in Los Angeles.

While turkey itself -- without the skin -- can be considered a dieter's food, the side dishes are not. Sweet potatoes with marshmallows has 419 calories per serving, while creamed corn -- basically cream and corn -- totals 330 calories per serving.