From parties to potlucks, it seems like almost every event attend is planned on a platform of eating... or overeating for most of us. Instead of following our regular eating routine, we save room by skipping meals. Unfortunately, by party time we throw caution to the wind and start scarfing down every morsel we can get our hands on. Suddenly, those creamy dips, fried egg rolls and chips don't seem so sinister. The key is to eat smartly throughout the day. Start off with a balanced breakfast. At lunch, eat light. Before you step out for the evening, enjoy a snack or small salad to quell those cravings. When you're faced with the party spread, make smart choices. Fresh vegetables, fruit, salsa, hummus and a small amount of nuts are all low-calorie options that are fulfilling. Chicken satay and shrimp cocktail also cut the mustard. But beware of those other not-so-diet-friendly finger foods that can easily derail your diet.