Thanksgiving is often a meal full of unhealthy, sugar-filled food. The key is not to survive on water alone. By eating in moderation, you can enjoy your meal and care for your health at the same time.

Here are some tips to help you make it through the holiday season happy and relaxed.

1) HAVE WATER ON HAND
It's easy to get dehydrated at Thanksgiving because your normal schedule is all askew. Try to keep water on hand and drink from it regularly. The more you stay hydrated with water, the more full you will feel. It'll also help your body digest and cope with all the other things you choose to eat.

2) ALWAYS EAT MINDFULLY
It's never a healthy idea to gobble down things while you watch TV or are otherwise distracted. That goes double when the choices aren't great to begin with. Eat slowly, attentively, and be aware of what you're eating. Appreciate every bite, whatever it is you choose to eat. Now is not the time to beat yourself up over choices. Just appreciate that you have food and enjoy it in moderation.

3) TAKE SMALL PORTIONS
You can always go back for more. Start small. Eat slowly. Give yourself time to get full. Drink that water. If you drink other liquids, avoid anything sugary.

4) SAVOR THOSE BITES
If you adore apple pie, take a small slice. Treat it like a special gift. Savor every mouthful. Draw the experience out.

5) FIND OTHER THINGS TO DO
Don't just sit at the table all day long. Go out for a walk. Dance to music. There are all sorts of options of things to do. The more you find other distractions, the more you'll default to just eating another plate-ful.

6) BREATHE DEEPLY
A lot of times we eat poorly on Thanksgiving due to stress. Find other ways to deal with that stress. Meditate before the holiday event starts. Practice deep breathing. Carry a soothing fragrance with you. Listen to your favorite music. Do a variety of tasks to help you stay reasonably relaxed and calm.

Thanksgiving is a time for giving thanks. For appreciating all life has given to you. Whatever challenges you face, there is a way through them.

Enjoy the holiday!