If you're celebrating Buffet Day today, here's how to not go OTT

If you're honouring Buffet Day today, it doesn't have to be at the cost of your fitness routine. All you can eat and a crazy variety of edibles is why buffet tables are what every foodie's dreams are made up of.

No, we aren't asking you to discreetly bag some goodies for home. Neither do you have to deprive yourself.

From smaller portions to plating your food right and more, these hacks will help you get the most out of an all-you-can-eat set-up.

Play some mind games

Yep, you can trick your mind into eating healthy. All you need is to enter the buffet with a game plan for your plate. Just mentally divide the plate into sections such as carbs, proteins etc., and put only that much amount on the plate. This will prevent you from heaping your plate and you will be able to sample everything without over-eating. 

Take your own sweet time

Did you know that your brain doesn't immediately register that your stomach is full? It takes 20 minutes for you to actually know that you have eaten your fill, leaving you at a risk of over-eating. So, go slow with your buffet manna. Chew well, savour the taste of the food, and socialise — this will help you kill time as well as realise when you're full. 

Choose your food right

Most of the buffet set-ups have a vast variety of dishes, so you can pick and choose the healthiest cuisine for yourself. When in doubt, stick to non-fat dairy, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean meats or plant-based proteins.

If you're having salads, opt for vinaigrette dressing rather than oil or cream-based ones. Grilled, steamed, baked or broiled food is always a better option than any fried food. Steer clear of processed foods and pastas.

Read more:

Can't eat eggs? Here's how to get your protein fix instead

Kareena Kapoor Khan reveals Sonam Kapoor's cheat diet