Start by skipping the alcohol, Gallaher said. And something as simple as putting the food in a room separate from the one in which people plan to eat can make a difference, Jensen said. People are less likely to eat as much if the food isn't right in front of them, he said. Limiting the variety of foods will also limit the total amount consumed, Jensen said. To curb the binging that goes on during the Thanksgiving meal, Hill recommends eating breakfast.
Substitution is another option.
Hill suggested serving more fruits and vegetables. Light exercise and fresh air also are healthy replacements for crashing on the couch. Doing the dishes or cleaning up after the meal are other ways to keep active, Darling said. But Hill said the best advice is to eat healthy and exercise throughout the year. That way students such as Kerimo can enjoy Thanksgiving dinner without feeling guilty.