In just days, many of us will spend time with family and friends celebrating Thanksgiving. Genetic counselors say that makes it a perfect time to discuss your family health history.

"Knowing your family history can be really powerful in that of other family members, once you start talking about what has happened in the family as far as a health perspective you might notice some trends," says Megan Nelson, a certified genetic counselor.

She says you may notice a trend of things like cancer or diabetes, even strokes. Genetic counselors suggest writing those trends down and talking with your doctor. That way you can take steps to prevent a number of diseases or other illnesses. While it's not the easiest topic to bring up at the dinner table, the goal is to keep you healthy.