(TNND) — Struggle with making your food heart-healthy? That task may be even more difficult on Thanksgiving.

Although Turkey is one of the leanest and nutrient-dense meats, it can be hard to stay on track when it comes to heart health due to wondrous Thanksgiving sides. It is also high in important vitamins, such as B and protein.

“Turkey breast is very low in fat, which makes it appealing for those watching cholesterol, calorie intake, or overall heart health,” Jen Messer, a registered dietitian and president of the New Hampshire Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, told USA Today.

However, it is possible to enjoy your favorite foods on Thanksgiving with a couple of swaps and edits to those traditional meals.

Dr. Ramy Sadek, a board-certified cardiologist practicing at UCR Health in Riverside, California, offers up suggestions to enjoy the holiday without risking your heart health, according to UC Riverside.

Tiny efforts can make a big difference

To take the pressure off, when it comes to the Thanksgiving portion, balance can be put before restriction, Sadek suggests.

“A simple guide is to fill half your plate with vegetables, a quarter with lean protein like turkey, and a quarter with starches. Using a smaller plate and taking a brief pause before seconds helps you enjoy the meal without excess sodium or calories,” Sadek said.

Making some simple ingridient swaps can also be key. Instead of using white-bread for stuffing, use whole-grain bread. Try olive oil instead of butter and base ingredients with low sodium.

Eating tips

Contrary to popular belief, it’s not best to skip breakfast on Thanksgiving to save room for dinner. Eating a light breakfast can help regulate blood sugar.

After a big Thanksgiving meal, it’s tempting to curl up on the couch, watch football and take a nap. But a walk is what’s best for health.

“A gentle walk, even for 10 to 15 minutes, can help with digestion and lower post-meal blood sugar. Drink plenty of water to offset sodium, avoid lying down right away, and take any heart medications as prescribed,” Sadek said.

And what about alcohol? In moderation is key. Excess alcohol can increase the risk for blood pressure; it may not be the best idea to try it out on the holiday.

Try these swaps and tips for a heart-healthy Thanksgiving!