It's tradition on Thanksgiving to eat like you're about to go to the electric chair. In fact, according to LIVEStrong.com, the average American gives thanks by gobbling (ha ha, get it??) more than 4,500 calories and 229 grams of fat. I don't even want to tell you how long you're gonna have to be on the treadmill to work that off.

But you don't have to stuff yourself this year. You can enjoy mom's home cooking and not end up eating enough for three people. Here are four surefire steps that'll keep you from veering off onto the bloated path for the rest of the holidays from the folks over at LIVEStrong.com.

Step 1
Eat a healthy, sensible breakfast and lunch. Many people choose to starve themselves through the day so they can have more room for the scrumptious meal. This will lead to binge eating. Instead, have a small, healthy breakfast and lunch. Drink water throughout the day to keep you from overeating or consuming empty calories from soda or alcohol. This will help you feel more satisfied so you won't overeat at dinner.

Step 2
Chew your meal slowly. Thanksgiving is the ideal time to sit down, eat your meal slowly and relish every bite. You will feel fuller faster, which will help you avoid overeating. Food is a wonderful part of Thanksgiving, but so is spending time with family and friends. Put down the fork for a few minutes, join the conversation, and you will eat less without noticing it.

Step 3
Use smaller plates. Depending on where you go for Thanksgiving it may be impossible, but if you are the host or your family doesn't mind, consider grabbing a smaller plate for your meal. You will feel like you are eating more than your actually are and will be less likely to overeat.

Step 4
Create a tiny, portioned smorgasbord. Between all of the delicious food, your great aunt asking if you tried her pie yet, and all of the goodies being passed your way, it is easy to be tempted to eat everything. Instead of having a big meal of turkey and potatoes and then trying everything else on top of it, have a little bit of everything. On most days, you should try to eat more vegetables and fruits than anything else, but on Thanksgiving, make your goal to avoid overeating. Allow yourself a spoonful or two of everything you love, pass over what you don't. You will end up feeling satisfied and will get to try everything you want without stuffing yourself silly.