There are plenty of things to be thankful for this year -- like celebrating the holiday in a healthy style. If you're one of those folks who overdoes it every Thanksgiving, this is the year to start anew by adopting some diet-smart traditions. {relatedarticles}By following these helpful hints, you can survive the holiday meal - and season - without expanding your bottom line. For starters, help yourself to whatever you like. Enjoy a sampling of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes and more. Take what you want the first time around and don't go back from seconds. If your plate is full, then you've eaten enough. By not going back for more, you'll keep your calorie count down. After your Thanksgiving meal, become a part of the cleaning crew. Clear the table. Help with the dishes. Put away the leftovers. Refrain from kicking back on the couch and burn some calories. You're not only helping the cook, but you're also helping yourself.

Once the kitchen is clean, participate in a post-Thanksgiving football game. Toss around the ball with family members, or why not go on a brisk walk? {relatedarticles}The point is that you should engage in 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity. Last but not least, what happens at Thanksgiving stays at Thanksgiving. In other words, bypass the leftovers. Leave all of those high-fat, high-calorie dishes for someone else. If you're the host, send your guests packing with those tempting treats. The last thing you want is to continue the festive free-for-all for months to come. Start the holiday season off light with these helpful hints. Your waistline will thank you.