GET ACTIVE - Start the day off on the right foot and burn off some extra calories before you even indulge in your favorite foods.

EAT BREAKFAST - Don’t fall into the trap that you should save up your calories for the big meal.  Eating a nutritious meal with protein and fiber before will take the edge off your appetite and allows you to be more discriminating in your food and beverage choices.

LIGHTEN UP - Try to modify were recipes to make them a little healthier.  There is more sugar and fat in most recipes than what is needed, no one will notice the difference if you skim calories by using alternate ingredients or cutting back on the amount of butter or sugar. For example use fat-free chicken broth to baste the turkey and make gravy.

POLICE YOUR PORTIONS - Before you fill your plate, survey the buffet table and decide what you’re going to choose. Fill your plate with small portions of your holiday favorites.  While we all have our favorites, keep in mind some foods are better choices than others for example: white turkey, plain vegetables, roasted sweet potatoes and pumpkin pie tend to have lower fat and fewer calories.  ALSO SKIP THE SECONDS, resist the temptation to go back for more.

SLOWLY SAVOR - Eating slowly, putting your fork down between bites, and tasting each mouthful is one of the easiest ways to enjoy your meal and feel satisfied with one plate full of food.

GO EASY ON ALCOHOL - Don’t forget those alcohol calories can add up quickly. Drink a glass of wine or a wine spritzer and between alcoholic drinks enjoy a sparkling water. This will also keep you hydrated, limit alcohol calories, and stay sober.

BE REALISTIC - The holiday season is a time for celebration.  Your schedule will get busier and there will be extra temptations.  Shift your goal from weight loss to weight maintenance.

FOCUS ON FAMILY & FRIENDS - Thanksgiving is not just about the delicious bounty of food. It's a time to celebrate relationships with family and friends. The main event should be family and friends socializing, spending quality time together, not just what is on the table.