A holiday based on overindulging, Thanksgiving is a challenging time for even the healthiest eaters.  Here are a few tips to help you navigate the holiday:

1. Protein first – Be sure to start your meal or event with starters high in protein like hummus or a mixture of almonds and walnuts.  Eating protein before a large meal can have a stabilizing effect on blood sugar.
2. Opt for Small Plates – If you’re hosting, use smaller plates.  If you’re celebrating at a friend or family member’s house, ask for a salad plate instead of a dinner plate.  By opting for a smaller plate, you can still have the satisfaction of a full plate but keep your portion sizes manageable and avoid taking too much.
3. Counter-Intelligence – When food is served family-style and dishes are left at the table, it’s convenient to take seconds and even thirds.  Instead, offer your Thanksgiving spread on a buffet or counter and have people serve themselves before they sit down.
4. Leftover Prep – If you’re hosting Thanksgiving, pick up inexpensive disposable food containers before the big meal.  Pack up leftovers and send them home with your guests to avoid having your refrigerator full of tempting dishes.  If you do have leftovers that you can’t part with, be smart about how you store them in your refrigerator.  Keep healthy leftovers front and center and cover more tempting leftovers in foil and place them on lower shelves, since you’re more likely to choose foods that are prominently featured in your refrigerator.

What are your favorite tips for navigating Thanksgiving dinner?