Oh, the temptations of the holidays. Great food in great abundance can easily persuade us to overindulge. Who can resist that sugary-sweet pecan pie? Or deep-fried turkey? It's that one time of the year when we give ourselves permission to eat to excess. But then, the guilt, and maybe a few extra pounds, kicks in.

So this year, why not resolve to approach the holiday feast with a game plan that allows you to both enjoy the foods you love, but also stay within your personal goals for eating more healthily? It's easier than you think. Here are a few tips:

*Fill up before you go
Instead of saving up your appetite for the main meal, which can lead to overindulging, eat a smaller meal before you go. Choose something healthy and filling such as a salad, some fruit or healthy crackers. By the time you arrive, you won't be so hungry that you overeat.

*Watch your portions
The larger the plate, the more tempted you'll be to pile it high with food. Instead choose a smaller plate and keep the portions small, about the size of a fist. You can always go back and get another (small) serving of this and that. But chances are, you won't really want to.

*Take it slow
Don't be in such a rush to grab your place in front of the big screen for the football game that you gobble down your food without taking time to chew it thoroughly. Not only does slow and methodical chewing help with digestion, it also makes you feel fuller faster.

*Offer to bring a healthy dish
This is a tricky one, but if handled delicately, it can make for a much more well-rounded meal. If you know that auntie's traditional Thanksgiving spread is typically high in calories, fats and carbs, offer to bring a vegetable side dish as your contribution. It can be your way of thanking her for all of her hard work over the years. She doesn't have to know that you're bringing something low in fat or calories. Let that be your little secret.