Top diet derailer: Weekends

Weekends derail diets -- so much so that Saturday and Sunday indulgences can add up to a pretty hefty weight gain over the course of a year.

Studies on weekend behavior show that people on diet and/or exercise routines consistently stop losing weight and over time, even gain a few on the weekends. The net gain: Almost nine pounds a year. Ouch.

The key to successful weekends comes down to wise decision-making. Pass on the Sunday brunch buffet and make your own gourmet and healthy breakfast at home. Skip your favorite trip for ice cream and try some low-fat frozen yogurt topped with fresh fruit. Then, wash your car, mow the lawn, walk the dog. Basically: Eat well and keep moving. The experts say we not only eat more on weekends but we exercise less too.