Hosting a party might sound like fun, but every hour of entertaining often means several hours of grocery shopping, cooking, decorating and other stressful pre-party activities. Anxiety is common, and with an abundance of fattening, high-calorie party foods offering "comfort," even the healthiest lifestyle can be challenged before the first guest arrives.

The key to successful entertaining is simplicity, both in terms of planning and recipes.

Here are a few suggestions for healthy and hassle-free entertaining:

• Prepare your grocery list - and shop - on a full stomach.
• Fill your buffet table with fresh flowers, fruits and vegetables, colored napkins and other interesting decorations.
• When cooking or baking, measure out portions of ingredients - then return them immediately to the cupboard or refrigerator. And if you can't avoid "tasting" as you cook, use ¼ teaspoon for each tasting.
• Chew sugarless gum while preparing and serving food or while stowing leftovers.
• For a delicious low-fat, alcohol-free Virgin Mary, mix low-sodium tomato juice with a dash of hot sauce. Serve over ice and garnish with a celery stick.
• Roll away the olives, and serve an hors d'oeuvres tray with carrot and celery sticks, and serve a low-fat dip in scooped-out red and green bell peppers.
• For a festive flair, serve your favorite stew or soup in a hollowed-out mini-pumpkin, acorn squash or Yukon gold potato.
• Looking for a low-fat dessert? Try angel food cake or fat-free pound cake topped with seasonal fruit.
• During the party, keep busy by visiting with your guests, playing games or taking pictures. Or turn up the stereo and dance away some extra calories.