Food pushers are those people who keep "pushing" you to eat more food. They seem to come out of the woodwork at holiday time.
Food pushers may be well-meaning family members, friends or work colleagues who just want to share a great recipe with you. But in the process they can really sabotage your best efforts to eat healthy.
Learning how to deal with food pushers is critical to a successful weight loss plan. Here are four tips to guide you:
1. Give healthy hints. For the people you feel comfortable confiding in - like a family member or good friend - take time before an event to share your desire to eat healthier this year. Be as specific as you can when asking for support and telling your confidante that "food pushing" isn't helpful... and can even be detrimental.
2. Leave your "people pleasing" trait at home. Make a pledge to not be a pleaser this holiday season. You don't have to be the perfect guest and always say "yes" to your host. Instead, redefine what it means to be a great guest. As long as you're socializing and being helpful, you will meet the definition of being a great guest – without tasting everything or overeating.
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3. Practice polite responses. Be ready for the food pushers by planning your responses ahead of time. You can be polite and still say "no, thank you!" You can also take a small bite without "making all gone." Or, you can say "I will try it later" – even if later never comes.
4. Take it to go. "Take it to go" was a winning strategy used by Barack Obama during the election season. Though most politicians and staff gain weight when on the road and working endless hours, it has been reported that Obama asked for his food "to go" when visiting diners and restaurants. Think about how important it was for Obama to not insult his hosts when offered food. He employed a strategy that worked for him and the host. The host feels good that you are taking something to go and you, the guest, feel good about being polite. This can be a win-win situation for all. It's a tactic that gets our vote!
I hope these four tips will help you not fall into the food pusher's trap this holiday season. Happy holidays!
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