Best Thanksgiving Buffet Items for Low Carb Dieters

During the season of feasting and overindulgence, sticking with your low-carb diet may seem like an impossible feat. However, you can still enjoy the season's gourmet treats when dieting with a plan; protein-packed appetizer and entrees will help you stick with your low carb diet and allow you to enjoy the season's feast without the guilt. When you're committed to sticking with your low-carb diet this Thanksgiving, here are some of the best food options from the Thanksgiving buffet lineup:

Skinless Turkey Breast for the Low Carb Diet

Enjoy the season's turkey without worrying about carbs, because roasted turkey is full of protein and can serve as the main part of your meal. Just make sure it's skinless and free of stuffing to make it a diet-friendly addition to your holiday plate. A few slices of turkey and some low-carb sides can keep you full and satisfied - and help you keep up with your diet goals.

Shrimp Cocktail for the Low Carb Diet

One of the simplest and tastiest low-carb menu items is the classic shrimp cocktail, and low-carbers can enjoy the high-protein appetizer as a starter or as a side to the main course. Just skip the sugar-laden ketchup and reach for hot sauce, salt, pepper and lemon juice to dress up the shrimp without sabotaging your diet.

Swedish Meatballs for the Low Carb Diet

Meatballs made with fresh sausage and spices are a great low-carb appetizer and can be a nice addition to your holiday platter. Just steer clear of the ketchup and rich dressings and enjoy these simple appetizers on their own.

Steamed Veggies for the Low Carb Diet

Any platter of steamed vegetables (sans the fattening dressings and sauces) is a must for the low-carb dieter's plate, so don't be afraid to stock up on cauliflower, broccoli, brussel sprouts and green beans. These can be mixed into a salad or eaten as a side to the main course, and are sure to fill you up fast as the Thanksgiving feast ensues.

Smoked Salmon for the Low Carb Diet

Smoked salmon salad and smoked salmon filets as part of your meal are a healthy and tasty addition to the Thanksgiving plate and are sure to fill you up on feast day. Enjoy this high-protein addition for your Thanksgiving platter to keep you on track with your low-carb diet.

You'll need to steer clear of several Thanksgiving buffet items when you're truly committed to the low-carb plan. Mashed potatoes, candied yams, cranberry sauce and that 7-layer salad are off limits for the low carb dieter, and saying 'no' to dessert will help you stay on track with your low carb diet. Still, you can fill up on dozens of diet-friendly foods from the Thanksgiving buffet and focus on the holiday celebration instead.