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 by: Joey Dweck

Unfortunately, every year thousands of dieter?s New Year?s weight loss resolutions are quickly ruined when Cupid?s arrow strikes in mid-February. All of those delicious and decadent treats can be hard to resist on Valentine?s Day; especially when presented by your true love. Take heart; however, because there are numerous ways you can still enjoy this romantic holiday without blowing your diet.

One great way to spend a fabulous Valentine?s Day together, without worrying about the diet damage you might incur, is to think outside of the box and present gifts that are totally calorie free. While traditional Valentine gifts typically involve rich chocolate and other calorie laden delicacies, there are tons of romantic gifts you can give that that will be just as appreciated. Consider a bath/spa basket or romantic CD or DVD. If you?re feeling particularly romantic and creative, grab a nice piece of stationary and write a romantic love letter. Other diet friendly ideas include personalized coupons, naming a star after your beloved and a nice bottle of their favorite cologne or perfume. And, of course, flowers are always a big Valentine?s Day hit and do not contain a single calorie.

If you?re concerned that your beloved might unintentionally sabotage your diet with those hard to resist Valentine treats, be sure to let him or her know early on that you want to stick to your diet plans. Make plans now to enjoy an evening together that doesn?t involve a heavy meal and rich dessert.

There are many ways that you can enjoy a little sweet treat on this most romantic of holidays, without feeling a bit guilty. Opt for preparing a strawberry or cherry gelatin mold in the shape of a heart and decorate with fat-free whipped topping. Assorted fruits, such as berries, served with a delicious low-fat dip, also makes a wonderful Valentine?s day dessert. Chocolate covered strawberries work well with the South Beach diet and are terribly romantic. You can enjoy eight of these decadent treats for only 170 calories. For an elegant and luscious Valentine?s dessert, whip up an low-fat chocolate mousse by substituting cocoa power and fat-free milk along with fat-free egg substitute. You can easily shave 300 calories off this yummy dessert and not feel at all deprived this February 14th.

Along the same lines, remember that a decadent Valentine?s dinner doesn?t have to be a lethal weapon in disguise. If your sweetie is following the Atkins diet, he or she will appreciate your consideration when you serve up a delicious low-carb Valentine?s dinner such as oysters on the half shell or lobster tails with garlic butter and a tasty green salad. For South Beach dieters, consider broiled fish in a light cream sauce or a grilled steak.

Finally, there?s no better way to start or end your Valentine?s Day celebration than with a kiss. One chocolate candy kiss contains only 25 calories, but don?t worry because just one minute of smooching with your honey burns 26 calories.